So You Think You're a Captioning Casanova? Conquering the New Yorker Cartoon Contest
Ah, the New Yorker cartoon caption contest. A weekly pilgrimage for witty wordsmiths, a graveyard for punchlines that fell flatter than a day-old soufflé. But fear not, aspiring humorist! With a sprinkle of wit, a dash of daring, and a whole lot of this handy guide, you might just become the next caption king (or queen) of the funny pages.
Decoding the Cartoon: Know Your Canvas
First things first, detective. Examine the cartoon with the focus of a hawk on Red Bull. What's the situation? What are the characters thinking? Is there a social commentary buried beneath the surface, or is it just a good old-fashioned pratfall? Understanding the cartoon's core humor is crucial. Remember, a caption that misses the mark is like showing up to a toga party in jeans. Totally acceptable elsewhere, just not here.
Craft Your Punchline: From Punny to Profound
Now, here's where the magic happens. Here's where you unleash your inner Dorothy Parker and whip up a caption worthy of a standing ovation. Puns? Sure, if they land like a gymnast. Social commentary? Go for it, but keep it concise. Wordplay so clever it makes angels weep? Now you're talking! There's no single formula, but remember:
- Brevity is your best friend. The New Yorker ain't got all day (and neither do its readers).
- Make it unexpected. Don't just explain the joke, elevate it.
- Read it aloud. Does it flow? Does it make you chuckle (or snort with laughter, ideally)?
Bonus Tip: If you can weave in a subtle New Yorker reference, consider yourself a captioning ninja.
The Art of the Underdog: Why You Shouldn't Fear Rejection (Too Much)
Let's be honest, the competition is fierce. There are more captions submitted each week than pigeons in a park. But hey, that just makes winning all the sweeter, right? Plus, the mere act of crafting a funny caption is a win in itself. Think of it as a mental bicep curl for your humor muscle.
Remember, rejection is just a stepping stone on the path to captioning glory. Keep at it, hone your craft, and one day, you might just see your brilliance splashed across the hallowed pages of the New Yorker.
FAQ: Your Captioning Conundrums Cracked
How to submit a caption? Check out the New Yorker website each week. There's a handy online form waiting for your comedic masterpiece.
How many captions can I submit? One per week, my friend. Quality over quantity, always.
How long can my caption be? Short and sweet. Aim for under 30 words.
How do they choose the winner? The New Yorker editors have the final say, but reader votes can influence their decision. So make 'em laugh!
How often do they announce winners? Winners are typically announced a week or two after the contest closes. Keep an eye on the New Yorker website.
Now, go forth and conquer, caption crusader! May your entries be endlessly quotable and your humor reign supreme.
