National Absurdity Day

A Celebration of the Wonderfully Weird

Ah, National Absurdity Day! It’s that delightfully bonkers time of year when we all get to embrace our inner loon and chuck logic right out the window. As I sit here, pondering the sheer ridiculousness of it all, I can’t help but grin like a Cheshire Cat on laughing gas. This quirky holiday, celebrated on November 20th, is a chance for us all to let our hair down, put on our silliest hats, and dance to the beat of a different drum – preferably one made of jelly.

The Nutty Origins of National Absurdity Day

Now, you might be wondering, “Where on earth did this cracker idea come from?” Well, buckle up, buttercup, because we’re about to take a wild ride through the topsy-turvy world of absurdity.

Ancient Absurdities

Believe it or not, the concept of absurdity isn’t some newfangled notion cooked up by bored millennials. Oh no, it’s been around since ancient Greece, when philosophers like Socrates and Plato were scratching their beards over the irrational aspects of life. Imagine Socrates in a toga, pondering, “Why do we drive on parkways and park on driveways?” – that’s the kind of head-scratcher we’re talking about.

But it wasn’t just the Greeks who dabbled in the absurd. Ancient cultures worldwide had their fair share of nonsensical rituals and beliefs. Take the ancient Egyptians, for instance. They thought the sky was a giant cow goddess named Nut who swallowed the sun every night and gave birth to it every morning. Talk about a labour-intensive job!

Medieval Madness

Fast forward to the Middle Ages, and things got even wackier. Ever heard of the Feast of Fools? It was a topsy-turvy celebration where lower clergy would elect a “Lord of Misrule” to parody church rituals. Imagine your local vicar dressed as a jester, leading a conga line through the cathedral. That’s the level of absurdity we’re dealing with here.

And let’s not forget the trial of animals. Yes, you read that right. In medieval Europe, they would put animals on trial for crimes. A pig charged with murder? A swarm of locusts accused of crop destruction? Just another Tuesday in ye olde courtroom.

Post-War Pandemonium

Fast forward to the aftermath of World War II, and absurdism hit its stride. Writers and playwrights like Samuel Beckett and Harold Pinter started churning out works that made about as much sense as a chocolate teapot – and people loved it! It was as if the whole world collectively decided, “Well, if life’s going to be this bonkers, we might as well embrace it.”

Beckett’s “Waiting for Godot” is perhaps the most famous example of absurdist theatre. Two blokes wait endlessly for someone named Godot, who never shows up. It’s like waiting for a bus that’s been cancelled, but nobody told you. The play is full of nonsensical dialogue and repetitive actions, mirroring the often meaningless routines of daily life.

Absurdity Goes Mainstream

Before you could say “dadaism,” absurdity had wormed its way into popular culture. We saw the rise of the Yippies, a group that once tried to levitate the Pentagon (spoiler alert: it didn’t work). Then there was the Church of the Subgenius, which… well, I’m still not entirely sure what they’re about, but it involves a lot of pipe-smoking and alien conspiracies.

But it didn’t stop there. The 1960s and 70s saw an explosion of absurdist art and entertainment. Monty Python burst onto the scene, bringing us such timeless classics as the Ministry of Silly Walks and the Fish-Slapping Dance. Meanwhile, artists like Salvador Dalí were painting melting clocks and elephants with impossibly long legs, making us question the very nature of reality (and possibly the contents of their afternoon tea).

Why Bother with National Absurdity Day?

Now, you might be thinking, “Isn’t life absurd enough already?” And to that, I say, “Precisely!” National Absurdity Day is like a pressure valve for the everyday madness we all endure. It’s a chance to look at the world sideways and say, “You know what? I’m going to wear my underpants on my head today, and that’s perfectly fine.”

Breaking the Mould

In a world where we’re constantly told to conform, National Absurdity Day permits us to colour outside the lines. It’s a day to challenge those pesky societal norms and ask important questions, like “Why can’t I eat dessert for breakfast?” (Spoiler: you absolutely can, and I highly recommend it).

But it’s more than just silly antics. By embracing absurdity, we’re engaging in a form of social commentary. We’re holding up a funhouse mirror to society and saying, “Look how ridiculous some of our ‘normal’ behaviours are!” It’s a way of questioning authority, challenging assumptions, and promoting creative thinking.

Laughter is the Best Medicine

There’s something wonderfully therapeutic about embracing the absurd. It’s like tickling your brain, releasing all those happy chemicals that make you feel like you’ve just won the lottery – except instead of money, you’ve won the right to be utterly ridiculous for a day.

Studies have shown that laughter can reduce stress, boost the immune system, and even increase pain tolerance. So, by celebrating National Absurdity Day, you’re not just laughing – you’re practically engaging in a full-body workout. Who knew giggling at nonsense could be so good for you?

A Cultural Rollercoaster

National Absurdity Day reminds us that life doesn’t always have to make sense. It’s a celebration of the weird, the wacky, and the downright bizarre aspects of human culture. It’s like looking at the world through a kaleidoscope made of funhouse mirrors – everything’s a bit skewed, but oh so colourful.

This day also serves as a reminder of the rich history of absurdism in art, literature, and philosophy. It’s a chance to appreciate the works of absurdist pioneers like Franz Kafka, whose story “The Metamorphosis” begins with a man waking up to find he’s turned into a giant insect. Because why not, right?

What Exactly is Absurdity, Anyway?

Alright, let’s get down to brass tacks (why brass? Why tacks? See, even idioms are absurd!). Absurdity is like trying to nail jelly to a wall – it’s illogical, senseless, and utterly unreasonable. It’s the sort of thing that makes you tilt your head like a confused puppy and go, “Eh?”

Philosophical Shenanigans

In the world of philosophy, absurdism is the idea that trying to find meaning in life is like trying to find a needle in a haystack… if the needle didn’t exist and the haystack was made of spaghetti. It’s the notion that we’re all just specks in an indifferent universe, desperately trying to make sense of it all.

Albert Camus, the poster boy of absurdism, likened life to the myth of Sisyphus. You know, the poor chap condemned to roll a boulder up a hill for eternity, only to watch it roll back down every time. Camus argued that once Sisyphus accepts the futility of his task and the absurdity of his situation, he can find happiness. It’s a bit like realising that life is a cosmic joke and deciding to enjoy the punchline.

Absurdity in Literature

If you want to see absurdity in action, look no further than literature. Lewis Carroll’s “Alice in Wonderland” is like a masterclass in nonsense, with its Mad Hatters and grinning cats. Then there’s Samuel Beckett’s “Waiting for Godot,” a play where, spoiler alert, Godot never shows up. It’s like waiting for a bus that’s been cancelled, but nobody told you.

But the absurdity doesn’t stop there. Franz Kafka’s “The Trial” follows a man arrested and prosecuted by a remote, inaccessible authority, with the nature of his crime revealed neither to him nor to the reader. It’s like being told off by your parents, but they won’t tell you what you’ve done wrong – except with more existential dread.

And let’s not forget Douglas Adams’ “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy,” where the answer to life, the universe, and everything is… 42. Why not? It’s a brilliant example of how absurdist literature can make us laugh while also pondering the big questions of existence.

How to Celebrate National Absurdity Day Like a Pro

Right, so you’re sold on the idea of National Absurdity Day (and if you’re not, maybe read this section upside down – it might help). Here’s how to make the most of this bonkers holiday:

Dress to Unimpress

Forget fashion sense – today’s all about fashion nonsense. Wear your clothes backwards, mix patterns like a deranged interior decorator, or better yet, dress up as your favourite surrealist painting. Salvador Dalí’s melting clocks, anyone?

Why not take it a step further and create your absurd fashion trend? How about hats made of fruit or shoes worn on hands? The only limit is your imagination (and possibly public decency laws, so do be careful).

Talk the Talk

Engage in conversations that would make Lewis Carroll proud. Try speaking in rhymes, use words in the wrong order, or invent your language. “Frabjous day! Callooh! Callay!” as the Jabberwocky would say.

You could even try communicating entirely in puns for the day. It might be a bit of a groan, but it’s sure to get a reaction. Just be prepared for some eye-rolls and possibly a few thrown objects.

Absurd Activities

• Juggle eggs in public (bonus points if they’re hard-boiled)
• Dye your eyebrows a shocking shade of pink
• Lead a meeting while standing on your hands
• Have a tea party with stuffed animals – in the middle of a roundabout
• Organise a backwards marathon where everyone runs backwards
• Host a ‘nonsense poetry’ slam where the most incomprehensible verse wins
• Start a flash mob where everyone pretends to be a different kitchen appliance

Absurdist Entertainment

Curl up with an absurdist book or film. I highly recommend giving “El Topo” by Alejandro Jodorowsky a watch – it’s like a fever dream had a baby with a Western, and that baby grew up to be a surrealist masterpiece.

Or why not have an absurdist film festival? Start with Luis Buñuel’s “The Discreet Charm of the Bourgeoisie,” where a group of friends repeatedly try (and fail) to have dinner together. Follow it up with Terry Gilliam’s “Brazil,” a dystopian satire that makes “1984” look like a rom-com. Finish off with Charlie Kaufman’s “Synecdoche, New York,” a mind-bending exploration of art, life, and everything in between.

Gifting the Gift of Absurdity

Stuck for gift ideas for your equally absurd-minded friends? Fear not, for I have some suggestions that are sure to raise eyebrows and induce giggles:

Delightfully Daft Presents

• A whoopee cushion (because flatulence never goes out of style)
• A rubber chicken (the Swiss Army knife of absurd props)
• A banana phone (for those important calls to the King of Fruitland)
• A “Do Not Press” button that, when pressed, does absolutely nothing
• A book of “Invisible Art” – just empty pages for the recipient to imagine their masterpieces
• A “Pet Rock” complete with a leash and care instructions
• A clock that runs backwards
• A “Schrödinger’s Cat” box – may or may not contain a cat (spoiler: it doesn’t)

Personalised Peculiarities

Why not get a t-shirt printed with an illogical slogan? Something like “I’m not here, this is a holographic projection” or “Warning: May spontaneously burst into interpretive dance.”

You could also commission a portrait of your friend… as a potato. Or perhaps a series of business cards with a different, equally incorrect job title on each one. “Chief Banana Peeler,” anyone?

Experiences of the Absurd

Gift an experience they’ll never forget (or possibly understand). Tickets to an absurdist play, a surrealist art exhibition, or a comedy show specialising in nonsensical humour are all excellent choices.

For the more adventurous, how about a voucher for a zero-gravity flight? Nothing says “absurd” quite like floating around in mid-air. Or perhaps a day at a laughter yoga workshop, where participants laugh for no reason at all. It’s absurdity and exercise rolled into one!

What Next? Keeping the Absurdity Alive

So, National Absurdity Day has come and gone, but that doesn’t mean we have to return to the drudgery of normalcy. Oh no, my friends, the spirit of absurdity can (and should) live on!

Everyday Absurdities

Incorporate little bits of nonsense into your daily routine. Have a food fight at breakfast, wear mismatched socks with pride, or start a conga line in the office. Life’s too short to be serious all the time.

Try answering the phone with a different accent each time, or introduce yourself with a new, ridiculous middle name every day. “Hello, I’m John Pickled-Onion Smith, how can I help you?” It keeps things interesting, and who knows? You might discover a hidden talent for voice acting.

Spread the Joy

Why not organise a flash mob of people dressed as bananas? Or start a social media campaign encouraging people to share their most absurd moments? The world could always use a bit more silliness.

You could even start an “Absurd Act of Kindness” movement. Leave anonymous, nonsensical gifts for strangers. A bouquet of spoons tied with ribbon, perhaps? Or a beautifully wrapped box containing a single grape? It’s sure to brighten someone’s day, even if it does leave them scratching their head.

Embrace the Unexpected

Next time something doesn’t go according to plan, instead of getting frustrated, try to see the absurdity in the situation. Missed your bus? Perfect opportunity for an impromptu street performance!

Lost your keys? Congratulations, you’re now on a thrilling treasure hunt! Burnt your dinner? You’ve just invented a new cuisine: Charcoal Chic. By reframing life’s little annoyances as absurd adventures, you’ll find yourself laughing more and stressing less.

Start an Absurdist Club

Why celebrate absurdity alone when you can share the joy? Start a local group dedicated to all things nonsensical. You could have monthly meetings where everyone speaks in pig Latin, or organise absurd outings like synchronized swimming in business suits or birdwatching for mythical creatures.

Write Your Own Absurdist Manifesto

Channel your inner Tristan Tzara (founder of Dadaism) and write your absurdist manifesto. Declare war on logic! Demand that all clocks be replaced with sundials – indoors! Insist that Thursdays be renamed “Banana Day” for no particular reason! It’s your manifesto, make it as gloriously nonsensical as you like.

Create Absurd Art

You don’t need to be Dalí or Magritte to create absurdist art. Try painting with your feet, sculpting with jelly, or creating a collage using only pictures of elbows. The beauty of absurd art is that there are no rules – the weirder, the better!

Practise Absurd Meditation

Who says meditation has to be all about calm and tranquillity? Try absurd meditation: focus intently on the most ridiculous thing you can imagine. A tap-dancing giraffe in a tutu? A cloud that rains spaghetti? The possibilities are endless, and I guarantee you’ll finish your session with a smile on your face.

In Conclusion Let’s Get Absurd!

As we wrap up this whirlwind tour of National Absurdity Day, I hope you’re feeling inspired to inject a little more nonsense into your life. Remember, in a world that often takes itself far too seriously, it’s the absurd moments that keep us sane.

Absurdity isn’t just about being silly for the sake of it (although that’s certainly part of the fun). It’s a way of looking at the world with fresh eyes, questioning the status quo, and finding joy in the unexpected and the unconventional. It encourages us to break free from the mundane and explore the limitless possibilities that lie beyond the realm of the ordinary.

Embrace the Absurd

As you navigate the rest of your year, remember that absurdity is not a one-day affair. Let National Absurdity Day be the spark that ignites a lifelong appreciation for the whimsical and the bizarre. Whether it’s through art, conversation, or everyday actions, find ways to incorporate a touch of the absurd into your routine. After all, a little madness can go a long way in making life more vibrant and enjoyable.

Share the Absurdity

One of the best ways to keep the spirit of National Absurdity Day alive is to share it with others. Encourage your friends, family, and colleagues to join in the fun. Organize absurd-themed parties, create social media challenges, or simply spread the word about the joy of embracing the nonsensical. The more people who participate, the richer and more diverse the celebration becomes.

Reflect on the Absurd

Take a moment to reflect on the role that absurdity plays in your life. How does embracing the absurd help you cope with stress or challenges? How does it inspire your creativity and problem-solving skills? Understanding the value of absurdity can deepen your appreciation for this delightful day and motivate you to seek out more opportunities to laugh, play, and think outside the box.

Final Thoughts

In a world that often prioritizes logic, productivity, and seriousness, National Absurdity Day serves as a much-needed reminder to let loose and revel in the joy of the ridiculous. It’s a celebration of the human spirit’s ability to find humour and meaning in even the most nonsensical of circumstances. So, whether you’re donning a hat made of fruit, engaging in a spontaneous dance-off, or simply sharing a laugh with friends over a silly joke, remember that embracing the absurd is a powerful way to enrich your life and the lives of those around you.

Let’s Get Absurd!

So, as November 20th approaches, start planning your most outrageous antics yet. Gather your fellow absurd enthusiasts and prepare to celebrate in style. After all, life is too short to be anything but delightfully absurd.

Happy National Absurdity Day! May your day be filled with laughter, creativity, and just the right amount of madness to keep things interesting.

Embrace the Absurdity!

Feel free to share your own absurd celebrations and experiences using the hashtag #NationalAbsurdityDay. Let’s create a global tapestry of silliness and show the world just how wonderfully weird we can be together!