It never seems to occur to some people, that, like beauty, a sense of humor may sometimes be fatal.

In this quote, Edgar Rice Burroughs, the renowned author best known for creating the Tarzan series, draws a comparison between beauty and humor. He suggests that just as beauty can be dangerous or lead to negative consequences, so too can a strong sense of humor. Burroughs implies that both qualities, while generally appreciated, may sometimes have unintended or even fatal consequences, perhaps by leading to misunderstandings or being misused in ways that harm others or oneself.

The phrase "fatal" in this context doesn’t necessarily mean literally life-threatening but rather speaks to the potential dangers or complications of these traits. A sense of humor, while usually a positive and social characteristic, can sometimes be misinterpreted or used inappropriately, potentially causing offense, alienation, or emotional harm. Similarly, beauty can attract unwanted attention or envy, which might lead to dangerous or unfortunate outcomes for those who possess it.

Burroughs’ quote also highlights the idea that some people fail to recognize the power or impact that both beauty and humor can have. Just as beauty can be exploited or misunderstood, so can humor be used in a way that turns against the person displaying it, especially if it’s not well-timed or well-received. This serves as a reminder that qualities like humor and beauty come with their own set of responsibilities and potential risks.

Ultimately, Burroughs’ statement encourages reflection on how seemingly harmless traits can have more complex or negative implications. The quote warns that a sense of humor, like beauty, is a potent quality that, if used carelessly or thoughtlessly, can lead to consequences far beyond what one might expect.