Meaning: The quote "He bit his lip in a manner which immediately awakened my maternal sympathy, and I helped him bite it" is a humorous and cleverly crafted line by the American humorist and writer, S. J. Perelman. It encapsulates Perelman's distinctive style of wit and satire, which often revolves around the absurdities of human behavior and interactions. This particular quote is from his essay "A Visit from Saint Nicholas in the Ernest Hemingway Manner," in which he parodies the writing styles of well-known authors.

The quote itself is a playful and exaggerated depiction of a simple action – biting one's lip. The use of "maternal sympathy" to describe the narrator's reaction to the character biting his lip adds a comedic twist to the situation. The idea of "helping him bite it" adds absurdity to the scenario, as it is not a typical response to someone biting their lip. Perelman's skillful use of language and wit shines through in this quote, as he creates a humorous and memorable moment out of an otherwise mundane action.

S. J. Perelman was known for his sharp wit, clever wordplay, and satirical observations of everyday life. His writing often featured a blend of humor, irony, and social commentary, making him a beloved figure in American literature. Perelman's ability to infuse ordinary situations with humor and insight is evident in this quote, as he takes a simple action and elevates it into a humorous and thought-provoking moment.

Throughout his career, Perelman wrote essays, screenplays, and books, showcasing his unique style and comedic talent. His work was characterized by a keen eye for the absurdities of human behavior and a knack for delivering sharp, incisive commentary on society and culture. This quote is a perfect example of Perelman's ability to use humor to shed light on the quirks and idiosyncrasies of human nature.

In conclusion, the quote "He bit his lip in a manner which immediately awakened my maternal sympathy, and I helped him bite it" exemplifies S. J. Perelman's distinctive style of humor and wit. Through this quote, Perelman captures the absurdity of everyday actions and infuses them with humor and insight. His ability to find humor in the ordinary and to play with language demonstrates why he remains a revered figure in American literature.