Meaning: The quote by Sergio Aragones, a renowned cartoonist, delves into the complexities of creating a gag or a humorous visual joke. Aragones is best known for his work in the Mad magazine, where his intricate and detailed cartoons have entertained readers for decades. His insight into the process of creating a gag sheds light on the level of thought and effort that goes into crafting a successful and impactful visual joke.

Aragones' statement suggests that the complexity of a gag necessitates a deeper level of consideration and contemplation during the drawing process. When a gag is intricate or multi-layered, the artist must invest more time and mental energy into visualizing and executing it effectively. This is because a complicated gag requires careful planning and attention to detail to ensure that all elements of the joke are conveyed clearly and cohesively to the audience.

In essence, Aragones is highlighting the correlation between the complexity of a gag and the amount of mental engagement and artistic skill required to bring it to life. Rather than simply drawing a straightforward and easily understandable joke, a more intricate gag demands a higher level of creative input and problem-solving on the part of the cartoonist. This can involve considering the composition, visual elements, timing, and overall impact of the gag to maximize its comedic effect.

For Aragones, the process of creating a complicated gag becomes a more immersive and intellectually stimulating experience. The additional time spent thinking about the gag allows the artist to delve deeper into the nuances of visual storytelling and humor, resulting in a more refined and sophisticated end product. This approach also reflects the dedication and passion that Aragones and other cartoonists bring to their craft, as they strive to produce work that is not only amusing but also intellectually engaging and artistically satisfying.

Aragones' quote is a testament to the artistry and ingenuity that underpins the creation of visual humor. It serves as a reminder that humor, especially in visual form, is a complex and multifaceted endeavor that requires careful thought and skillful execution. By acknowledging the impact of complexity on the creative process, Aragones offers valuable insight into the inner workings of the cartoonist's mind and the effort invested in producing compelling and entertaining visual gags.

In conclusion, Sergio Aragones' quote encapsulates the profound connection between the complexity of a gag and the artistic contemplation it demands. His words shed light on the intricate and thought-provoking nature of visual humor, highlighting the time and effort invested by cartoonists in crafting jokes that are not only funny but also intellectually stimulating. Through his insight, Aragones provides a glimpse into the creative process behind creating compelling visual gags and the level of artistic engagement required to bring them to life.