Week 1 Assignment: Viral Infamy

Watch the following video, and evaluate the humor (assuming there is some, though opinions will definitely vary).  Is this actually "funny," and why did American popular culture develop a fixation with a simple three word sentence?



Once you've considered these things, read the following article from the Washington Post. The reason I've chosen this article is more for the quality of the writing, and not so much for the entertainment value of the video discussed.  David Segal has spent years writing for America's best newspapers, and in a move from the Washington Post to The New York Times he inspired this description from a coworker:

"Nearly every assignment he takes on he manages to deliver in a fresh and surprising way. He is the consummate friend of the reader — a clear explainer, intent on seeking out narrative, with an off-beat sense of humor. David always comes back with the goods — and better and more surprising goods than other writers."

So, while reading, pay close attention to his unique narrative style, and how he frames the story with just the right amount of detail.  Not only is it easy to read, but it's engaging and expansive.

 
In an argumentative tone, respond to the questions raised in the article (perhaps using other examples to support your opinion).  You may respond as if leaving a comment on the article.  Length of response is up to you, but 300 words should be a minimum target.

***Note:  Please repost this video and article link (hotlink) in your blog for reference purposes.  To do this: Right click on the video, select embed code, and paste it into the "Edit HTML" section.  Since the video will be larger than your blog window, you will have to make it smaller.  In the code you will see height and width, so reduce the width by 100 pixels.  You have to do this twice within the code.