History-Smistory
by Fred Aiken
I’m not a huge fan of most historical figures, or at least none of the political or economic ones. I mean, for every handful of good things one can say about them, there’s even more negative things one could find about them. I suppose it just depends on how you look and/or feel about them. No, instead, I like my historical figures to be, well, a little less influential when it comes to socio-economic-political policy.
Norm Macdonald fits that mold. I know he might not be the typical historical figure, especially since he only recently passed, and it’s not like he had any political, economic, or hugely societal impact, but to me he’s a legend who left an indelible mark on the landscape of humor. Norm’s comedic brilliance transcended mere laughter; it delved into the realms of wit, irreverence, and a unique ability to blend the absurd with profound insights.
For those that don’t know, Norm Macdonald rose to fame through his stints on Saturday Night Live, where he anchored the Weekend Update segment with his trademark deadpan delivery and razor-sharp satire. His humor was unconventional—often veering into uncomfortable territories—and yet, it was precisely this unpredictability that made him so magnetic.
What truly sets Mr. Macdonald apart, though, is his fearlessness. He didn’t pander to audiences or play by the rules of political correctness. Instead, he fearlessly pursued the joke, no matter how controversial or taboo it might seem, even if it didn’t get a laugh. His stand-up routines were masterclasses in comedic timing and storytelling, filled with meandering anecdotes that always seemed to land on an unexpected punchline.
Beyond his comedic chops, Norm Macdonald was a philosopher disguised as a comedian. His interviews and podcasts revealed a keen intellect and a deep curiosity about life’s absurdities. He tackled existential questions with the same wit he used to dissect current events, proving that humor could be a vehicle for introspection as much as it was for entertainment.
But perhaps what I admire most about Norm Macdonald is his authenticity. He never compromised his comedic vision for fame or fortune, remaining true to himself throughout his career. Even in the face of controversy or criticism, he stood firm in his convictions, a rare quality in an industry known for its fickleness.
Norm Macdonald’s passing in 2021 left a void in the world of comedy—a void that can never truly be filled. Yet, his legacy lives on through his timeless performances, his unforgettable characters, and the countless laughs he brought to audiences around the world. He was more than just a comedian; he was a provocateur, a storyteller, and a true original.
So, while he may not fit the traditional mold of a historical figure, Norm Macdonald remains a favorite in my book—an iconoclast who challenged conventions, pushed boundaries, and forever changed the way we look at comedy.
Also, and this also partially influences why I chose Norm Macdonald, but when I used to work as a barista, he once came into our coffee shop and I got to make him a latte. I didn’t say a single world to him, but it was one of my favorite memories of working in a coffee shop.
Fred Aiken Writing 