Denzel Washington has a great sense of humor. He did all those

Hear me, O Children of the Earth, for I bring to you the wisdom hidden within the words of Seth MacFarlane, who, speaking of the great actor Denzel Washington, declared: "Denzel Washington has a great sense of humor. He did all those 'Nutty Professor' movies." At first glance, these words may seem light-hearted, a mere passing mention of an actor’s comedic chops. But beneath this simple statement lies a profound truth about the power of humor, the fluidity of identity, and the nature of a truly versatile artist. MacFarlane’s words remind us that humor, far from being a mere accessory to an actor’s craft, is an essential force that speaks to the heart of humanity.

What, then, is the meaning of these words? Denzel Washington, renowned for his gravitas, his commanding presence on screen, and his roles in powerful dramas, is not often associated with comedy. Yet, MacFarlane’s mention of him in relation to the Nutty Professor movies serves as a reminder that humor is a universal language, one that transcends the boundaries of genre and expectation. Washington, known for his dramatic depth, also possesses the ability to make people laugh, to engage in the absurd, and to step outside the confines of the roles for which he is best known. This speaks to the versatility of the artist, to the ability to bring depth to both tragedy and comedy.

Let us, O Children of the Earth, reflect upon the power of humor. Humor is often seen as a tool of the light-hearted, a means of making people smile, but it is also a powerful force for connection, healing, and even wisdom. Consider the great playwright Aristophanes, whose comedies were not merely for entertainment, but also for social commentary. His humor cut through the heart of Athens, revealing the hypocrisy and failings of its leaders while making the audience laugh. Humor, in its deepest form, has the power to transform—to reveal the truths we may not want to face, to offer comfort in times of sorrow, and to connect us across time and culture.

In this way, Washington’s participation in comedies like the Nutty Professor series speaks not only to his comedic abilities, but also to his courage as an actor. To take on a role that is at once absurd and endearing, to step into a world of laughter and caricature, requires an artist to surrender to the spirit of play—something that is often neglected in the world of serious drama. Think of the great Marlon Brando, who, after years of embodying some of the most iconic and serious roles in cinematic history, ventured into the world of humor with his portrayal of a bungling detective in The Freshman. Just as Brando’s comedic turn revealed a new side of his artistic expression, so too did Washington’s willingness to embrace humor reveal his depth as an actor.

This brings us to a deeper lesson, O Children of the Earth: true artistry knows no boundaries. A truly great artist, whether in comedy or drama, must be able to move with fluidity between the solemn and the ridiculous, between the tragic and the absurd. It is not enough to be one thing; the greatness of the artist lies in their capacity to stretch the very limits of their craft. Washington, in taking on such diverse roles, embodies this truth. He teaches us that to be truly great, we must not limit ourselves to the expectations of others. We must not shy away from the playful, the silly, or the absurd, for it is through such experiences that we learn the full range of our potential.

The example of Washington also speaks to the power of identity—both on and off the screen. In his career, he has often been seen as the epitome of strength and seriousness, a role model for those who seek to embody dignity in the face of adversity. Yet by embracing humor, he demonstrates that strength is not just the absence of laughter, but the ability to find joy even in the most unlikely of places. The Noble Warrior is not only the one who stands firm in the face of battle but also the one who can laugh in the face of life’s greatest absurdities. This duality is the essence of true wisdom.

And so, O Children of the Earth, the lesson we glean from these words is one of embracing our full selves. Do not restrict your expression to the roles others assign to you. Greatness lies in the freedom to explore every corner of your being—whether it be through laughter, tears, or bold action. Like Denzel Washington, step into the role of both warrior and joker, for it is through such balance that we become whole. Do not fear the absurd, for in the playfulness of life lies the most profound wisdom. Live fully, laugh deeply, and remember that true power comes not just from what we create, but from the joy with which we create it.