The more I live, the more I think that humor is the saving sense.

Jacob Riis’s quote emphasizes the importance of humor in navigating life’s challenges. By stating that humor is "the saving sense," Riis suggests that humor serves as a vital coping mechanism in difficult situations. The idea is that humor provides a resilient quality, helping people to find relief, perspective, and strength when faced with adversity. In this sense, humor is not just about amusement but about offering a form of emotional salvation in the face of hardship.

Riis’s statement also reflects a deeper philosophical view that, as life becomes more complicated with time, humor becomes an essential tool for survival. It allows individuals to maintain their sanity and sense of balance when confronted with life’s struggles. Whether dealing with personal difficulties or societal injustices, humor can bring relief by offering a lighter perspective on serious matters. It creates a space for hope and resilience, where even the darkest situations can have a moment of levity.

Jacob Riis, a prominent social reformer and journalist known for his work on exposing the harsh living conditions in New York City, likely developed this view through his deep understanding of social inequality and poverty. His writing, including the famous book How the Other Half Lives, often depicted the dire situations of the poor, and humor might have been a way for him to cope with the weight of these realities. Riis’s quote reflects his recognition of the power of humor to offer some sense of lightness and hope amid the toughest of circumstances.

The origin of the quote is rooted in Riis’s lifelong exposure to human suffering and social injustice. Over time, he came to see humor as a critical sense that helped people endure difficult realities. In this context, Riis highlights humor’s transformative power, not just as entertainment, but as an essential tool for maintaining mental health and perspective in challenging times.