ABSTRACT
It is hardly necessary to remark that “sex” in a broad sense is one of the interests most often drawn upon to give point to a joke. It fulfills this function well, not because it has any special innate connection with laughter, but because it is a vigorous and unflagging interest, and yet one which we hold down. It can be relied on to intrude into our minds upon the slightest pretext when other meaning-patterns come to grief. And its intrusion, although superficially distressing if taken seriously, is also seriously desired. The very force which suppresses it contains the wish to bring it forth—an inner situation much like that depicted in the story of the couple under the bushes and the park policeman. Policeman
“What are you doing in there?”
The Citizen“Nothing.”
Policeman“Come out here and hold this flashlight!”
