Writing comedy is a very strange thing, I find.

There’s an old saying that being funny is the hardest thing to do, and it is probably true. I suspect it’s because being funny relies so heavily on the mood of your audience–you can twist mid story, be self deprecating, or just ride the good vibe of the people before you. When it’s just you and the blank screen, however, there’s a lot less ‘moment’ to guide you through your routine.

Below is a Woody Allen joke about being kidnapped. I know a lot of people don’t like Allen, but I’ve always found him a funny sort, and I reckon you can learn a lot by listening to how he structures his gags.