Meaning: Dario Fo, the Italian playwright and Nobel Prize winner in Literature, is known for his satirical and politically charged works that often challenge the existing social and political structures. The quote "Comedy makes the subversion of the existing state of affairs possible" encapsulates Fo's belief in the power of comedy as a tool for critiquing and challenging the status quo.

In essence, Fo is suggesting that comedy has the ability to disrupt and question the established order of things. Through humor and satire, comedians and playwrights like Fo can shine a light on societal injustices, hypocrisies, and absurdities, thereby opening up space for critical thinking and potentially sparking change.

One of the key elements of comedy as a subversive force is its ability to engage audiences in a non-threatening and entertaining manner. When people are laughing, their defenses are often lowered, allowing for the delivery of subversive messages in a way that is more palatable and less confrontational than other forms of protest or critique. Fo's own works, such as "Accidental Death of an Anarchist" and "Mistero Buffo," exemplify this approach, using humor and farce to challenge authority and expose societal problems.

Moreover, comedy has a long history of being used as a tool for social and political commentary. From ancient Greek comedies to modern-day stand-up routines, humor has been employed to highlight the absurdities and injustices of the world. By presenting these issues in a comedic light, artists can draw attention to them in a way that resonates with a wide audience.

In addition to its ability to engage and provoke thought, comedy also has the power to create a sense of solidarity and unity. When people laugh together at the same absurdities or injustices, they form a collective understanding and shared experience. This can be a powerful catalyst for social change, as it fosters a sense of community and common purpose among the audience.

Furthermore, comedy has the potential to challenge the dominant narratives and power structures by offering alternative perspectives and interpretations. By presenting the world in a humorous and often exaggerated way, comedians can reveal the underlying contradictions and flaws in the existing state of affairs, encouraging people to question and reevaluate their assumptions.

In conclusion, Dario Fo's quote encapsulates the transformative potential of comedy as a subversive force. Through humor and satire, comedy has the ability to disrupt, engage, and challenge the existing state of affairs, ultimately paving the way for critical reflection and potential change. Fo's own works and the broader history of comedic expression serve as testaments to the enduring power of comedy as a tool for social and political critique.