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Laughing
There is something about a good laugh that can make even an ordinary day feel a little brighter. Whether it comes from children playing, a funny story shared with friends, or one of those moments when we simply cannot stop laughing, laughter has a wonderful way of lifting our spirits.
In his famous poem Laughing, John Imrie celebrates the kind of laughter that comes from happiness, fun, and good fellowship. He especially enjoys the carefree laughter of children, whose joy comes naturally as they play, run, and enjoy being together.
But Imrie also reminds us that not all laughter comes from kindness. He contrasts joyful laughter with laughter that mocks or looks down on others. His words encourage us to enjoy the laughter that brings people together rather than the kind that causes hurt.
Each day gives us something to smile or laugh about if we take the time to notice it. Life may bring challenges, but a good laugh can lighten our mood and help us face the day with a more cheerful heart.
Updated September 17, 2026, by Catherine Pulsifer.
Laughing
Poet: John Imrie
Oh, how I love the hearty laugh
That rings with a merry peal!
The outcome of some' witty "chaff,"
Which makes one cheerful feel;
A laugh which almost racks the jaw,
A regular side-splitter!
In which all join with "loud guffaw,"
And nothing isn't that's bitter!
I love when children laugh outright,
And shout in their playful glee,
When all run out to see the sight,
Or join in the sport so free!
A laugh that knows not care or ill,
The frolicsome laugh of fun!
Which speaks of naught but right good-will.
As they skip, and laugh, and run!
I hate the haughty laugh of scorn.
From the dudish fops called "men,''
Who sneer at worth if humbly born.
And smile at "the upper ten! "
Whose empty laugh shows lack of brain
Their language devoid of wit.
Their greatest feat to "twirl a cane,"
Or display "a perfect fit!"
Key Reflections In This Poem
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Laughter Can Brighten The Day
A hearty laugh can lift our spirits and bring a little happiness into an ordinary day. Imrie reminds us of the simple pleasure that comes from laughing freely and enjoying the moment.
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Children Show Us The Joy Of Laughter
The carefree laughter of children is filled with happiness and fun. Their playful spirit reminds us that some of life's happiest moments can be found in simply enjoying ourselves.
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Good Laughter Brings People Together
There is something special about sharing a laugh with other people. Laughter can create happy memories, lighten a difficult moment, and help us feel more connected to one another.
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Laughter Should Never Hurt Others
Imrie makes an important distinction between joyful laughter and laughter that comes from scorn. The best laughter is shared with others, not directed at someone in a way that causes embarrassment or hurt.
Popular Pages
Continue with more poems and quotes about laughter, smiles, humor, and finding a little more happiness in everyday life.
Let these Laugh Quotes remind you of the happiness, humor, and lighter moments that laughter can bring into our lives.
Read Laughter and Tears for a thoughtful look at the laughter and tears that are both part of life's journey.
Enjoy these Smile Quotes and be reminded how something as simple as a smile can brighten your day and the day of someone else.
Find humor in everyday experiences with these Funny Poems About Life that remind us not to take every moment too seriously.
Read A Laugh Pays Best In The End for another poem that celebrates the value of laughter and a cheerful outlook.
Conclusion
John Imrie's Laughing reminds us of the simple happiness that comes from a hearty laugh. The carefree laughter of children, a funny moment shared with others, or a good joke can brighten the day and help us forget our worries, even if only for a little while.
At the same time, Imrie reminds us that laughter is at its best when it comes from happiness rather than at someone else's expense. May we always find reasons to laugh, share that happiness with others, and remember that a little laughter can make even a difficult day feel lighter.
More John Imrie Poems to Encourage