Conan’s Parting Words
“All I ask is one thing, and I’m asking this particularly of young people that watch: Please do not be cynical. I hate cynicism. For the record, it’s my least favorite quality — it doesn’t lead anywhere. Nobody in life gets exactly what they thought they were going to get. But if you work really hard and you’re kind, amazing things will happen.” – Conan O’Brien
Truly words to live by. And its hard not to be cynical in this day and age. I’m not just talking just about the cynicism regarding the state of affairs in our country. It seems we as a generation are very cynical – completely across the board. In fact, not just cynicism, but irony and sarcasm – other forms of negativity (be it for comedic effect or not) – seem to permeate, and in some cases saturate, not only television and movies but our day to day conversations. We seem to have been born with this attitude built in. Conan’s Generation, or that of our parents, don’t seem to have it. Now, I know that I’m public enemy number one with a fucking bullet when it comes to people that bear that sort of attitude, and that’s why when he said it I felt as though he was speaking directly to me. Anyway, I know I’m not alone in feeling that way. Thoughts?
Read more about it here.
Michelle • 2 years ago
Well, I feel it’s safe to say I’m up there on the cynicism list. If you read anything I write, it shows as well. In some of my writing it is there for effect, but that doesn’t necessarily mean I don’t feel that way on the inside. I’ve known for years that is something I need to focus on not being, but let’s face it, it’s hard not to be.. much of the time, anyway. But on the other hand, I do still work hard, and I am kind to people, I just happen to have a very negative attitude hidden behind it all.
Scott • 2 years ago
Oh Conan, how I miss you so. He truly is (dramatic pause) a man of the people.
It’s kind of funny; my 7 month run of unemployment came to an end on the same day as his last show. I was cynical as shit for 6 straight months (plenty of hope the first month) and then on that fatefull day, nothing but blue skies.
I would dare to say that, for some of us, the cynicism may have been brought on upon by random shitty happenings in life, “shatpenings”. Although I am fairly cynical, I’m just as weary and don’t trust others. Product of your environment?
Ryne • 2 years ago
Um, let’s remember, the great Conan O’Brien isn’t dead… I’m sure he has ideas for a new show. He’s a smart man. But the show will be greatly missed.
But yes, Scott, I will start work again next week after almost exactly 6 months of unemployment (and yes that first month was nice, and Funemployment isn’t really as fun as it sounds). And 6 months of being turned down at a great number of businesses does result in cynicism. Especially when you do work hard and are kind to everyone, but there are still “shatpenings”, creating more pessimism towards any/everything that comes your way. Product of environment. I’m sure when I go back to work, the sky will be blue also.
But Conan does have a good message.
Mike • 2 years ago
This is bullshit.
Scott • 2 years ago
That’s great! Now, expand on that Mike.
Mike • 2 years ago
Look, I love Conan, a lot, and I think the larger point is fairly good; we are more cynical than our fathers and their fathers, but how did we get in that situation? Because our existence has been a nightmarish one; we’ve lived with no motivation or reason; love of country isn’t allowed, religion is considered an obvious crutch and illegitimate, and we’ve come to believe we’re entitled to so much that our futures have been mortgaged away. What’s left but cynicism to keep our sanity?
Mike • 2 years ago
Video killed the radio star.
larry • 2 years ago
your first comment cracked me up so hard man.
I really believe conan’s heart was in the right place and his words rang true at least for me. i know that they simply reflect reality and i was looking for answers thanks
Mike • 2 years ago
I was going for laughs on that one; reacting to critiques of cynicism with cynicism, etc.
larry • 2 years ago
job well done, sir. job well done.