Meaning:
The quote "Start every day off with a smile and get it over with" is a humorous and somewhat tongue-in-cheek piece of advice attributed to W.C. Fields, a renowned American comedian, actor, and writer. Fields was known for his quick wit, sarcasm, and often irreverent attitude, and this quote reflects his characteristic blend of humor and cynicism.
On the surface, the quote may seem like a lighthearted suggestion to approach each day with a positive attitude, but a closer look reveals a more complex and satirical message. Fields' use of the phrase "get it over with" suggests a resigned acceptance of the challenges and difficulties that life often presents. It can be interpreted as a humorous commentary on the inevitability of facing daily struggles and the need to simply endure or "get through" them.
In a broader sense, the quote can be seen as a reflection of Fields' own outlook on life. Throughout his career, he often portrayed characters who were jaded, world-weary, and unapologetically cynical. His comedic persona was built on a foundation of skepticism and a tendency to find humor in life's absurdities and disappointments. Therefore, "Start every day off with a smile and get it over with" can be seen as a reflection of Fields' trademark blend of humor and resignation.
It's also worth considering the context in which Fields lived and worked. Born in 1880 and coming of age during the early 20th century, he witnessed significant social and cultural changes, as well as the tumultuous events of two world wars and the Great Depression. His comedic style often reflected the disillusionment and skepticism that were prevalent during these times, and his quote may be seen as a reflection of the resilience and humor that people often needed to navigate such challenging periods in history.
Despite its seemingly sardonic tone, the quote can also be interpreted as a reminder to approach life with a sense of humor and resilience. By starting the day with a smile, even in the face of adversity, one can adopt a mindset of positivity and fortitude. In this sense, the quote may contain a nugget of genuine wisdom, encouraging individuals to maintain a sense of humor and levity in the face of life's inevitable trials and tribulations.
In conclusion, W.C. Fields' quote "Start every day off with a smile and get it over with" captures the essence of his comedic persona, blending humor with a hint of resignation. It can be interpreted as a wry commentary on the challenges of daily life, as well as a reminder to approach adversity with humor and resilience. Despite its seemingly cynical undertones, the quote carries a message of enduring positivity and the ability to find humor in life's trials.