Meaning: This quote is a humorous and satirical remark on the idea that everything in life has its downsides or negative aspects. The quote uses a common scenario—dealing with the death of a mother-in-law—to illustrate this concept in a lighthearted and relatable way. The author, Jerome Jerome, was known for his wit and humor, and this quote is a prime example of his style.

Jerome K. Jerome (1859-1927) was an English writer best known for his comic novel "Three Men in a Boat (To Say Nothing of the Dog)." He had a talent for using humor and satire to comment on everyday situations and human nature. In this quote, he employs a comedic analogy to convey a universal truth: that even in the most challenging or unpleasant circumstances, there is often an element of irony or humor to be found.

The quote begins with the phrase "But there, everything has its drawbacks," which sets the stage for the humorous observation to follow. The use of the phrase "But there" suggests that the speaker is about to make a counterpoint or provide a different perspective on a previous statement or situation. By starting with this phrase, Jerome Jerome draws the reader's attention and creates anticipation for the punchline that follows.

The second part of the quote, "as the man said when his mother-in-law died, and they came down upon him for the funeral expenses," is where the humor and irony are revealed. The scenario of a man facing funeral expenses for his deceased mother-in-law is a classic setup for a comedic situation. The implied punchline is that even in the face of a personal tragedy (the death of a family member), the man is still burdened with the additional stress of dealing with the associated costs and responsibilities.

The use of the phrase "and they came down upon him for the funeral expenses" adds a sense of exaggerated pressure and scrutiny on the man, further emphasizing the absurdity of the situation. The humor lies in the juxtaposition of the man's grief and the insensitive demands being placed on him, highlighting the ironic and often absurd nature of life's challenges.

Overall, Jerome Jerome's quote serves as a reminder that humor can be found in even the most difficult or trying circumstances. By using a relatable and slightly exaggerated scenario, he captures the universal experience of facing challenges and finding humor in the midst of adversity. This quote is a testament to Jerome Jerome's skill as a humorist and his ability to offer lighthearted commentary on the human condition.