You know, I'd buy you a parachute if I thought it wouldn't open.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The speaker offers a parachute only if he thinks it won't work, highlighting dangerous sarcasm.
- In plain terms
- He offers help only if it is meant to fail.
- What can you take from it?
- Sarcasm can mask harmful intent with a joke.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- When does a joke cross into cruelty?
- How do we spot hidden malice?
Another view
It can be misinterpreted as genuine help.
More from Groucho Marx
You know I could rent you out as a decoy for duck hunters?
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