Things have to be funny first, and if they want to have a point, that's awesome.

The quote "Things have to be funny first, and if they want to have a point, that's awesome" by John Mulaney reflects his approach to comedy and his belief in the importance of humor as the primary goal. Mulaney, a renowned comedian and writer, emphasizes that humor should be the driving force behind any comedic material, and that if the material also manages to convey a meaningful message or a point, then that's an added bonus. For Mulaney, the funny aspect should never be sacrificed for the sake of a deeper message.

Mulaney's statement underscores the priority he places on making his audience laugh. As a comedian, he understands that the essence of comedy lies in entertainment and the enjoyment of the audience. While it’s common for modern comedians to weave social or political messages into their acts, Mulaney values humor above all else. For him, the primary purpose of comedy is to provide amusement, and if the jokes also carry meaning, that's a secondary benefit.

By saying "if they want to have a point, that's awesome," Mulaney acknowledges that a message or lesson in comedy can be powerful and rewarding, but it shouldn’t be the driving factor. He suggests that comedy should first and foremost be about fun and laughter, and if it happens to make people think or reflect on something, that's just an added layer that enhances the experience.

Ultimately, John Mulaney's quote highlights his belief that comedy should prioritize laughter and entertainment, and that a deeper point or lesson should never overshadow the need for fun. It reflects his style of comedy, which focuses on creating moments of pure amusement, while also allowing room for thoughtful reflection when the time is right.