Make Room for Fun

Recently I heard a contemporary blues singer (Lightnin’ Charlie) interviewed about his life and work. In the course of the interviewed he said, “My business is to create fun. If people who come to hear me don’t have fun, I’ve not done my job.”

I’m not going where some of you might think. I don’t believe that it is the sole or perhaps even a primary function of Art to create fun for people. But here is a thought to consider in the privacy of your own mind. How many of you are uncomfortable with “fun” being any part of the business of art? Or at least have to pause to sort out what you think about the notion? Artcentricity is serious business for many and that seriousness gets in the way of communicating with people who have little or no connection with the arts.

I’ve written on numerous occasions about lessons to be learned from pop culture about paying attention to those we seek to reach, but “entertainment” has always been the prime mission of those I’ve cited. This performer clearly understood that to be one of his functions (otherwise, “fun” would not be something he sought to facilitate). However, he also expressed extreme respect for the traditions and exemplars of his art. The legacy of Muddy Waters, John Lee Hooker, Magic Sam, and many others is something he honors and for which he feels a responsibility. The blues is a vital part of his personal mission.

The history of every art form is full of jokes, games, and tricks: humor of all kinds stands alongside the deadly serious. We need not abandon any arts mission we believe to be important in order to make room for fun. However, an over-focus on the serious at the expense of fun suggests that the arts are a cult and only “those who know” are welcome. The more we can embrace “points of fun” in our work, the more doorways we will have to welcome newcomers to the worlds we represent. Think of it this way:

 Make room for fun. Make room for others.

Engage!

Doug

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