# When He Should Laugh explained — Poetry

> Chapter companion for Poetry by Edward Thomas.

## What happens

A brief poem contrasting the wise man's discernment in laughter with the even greater wisdom of knowing when to laugh or refrain alongside fools.

## Themes in this chapter

### Solitude and Reflection

The poem's focus on inner discernment and the reflective wisdom of knowing when to laugh.

## Character check-ins

### Unknown

The speaker who reflects on wisdom and laughter.

## Key lines

> When he should laugh the wise man knows full well: For he knows what is truly laughable.

A wise person understands the appropriate moments for laughter because they recognize what is genuinely ridiculous.

_Establishes the theme of discernment in social conduct._

> But wiser is the man who laughs also, Or holds his laughter, when the foolish do.

Even wiser is the person who either joins in laughter or restrains it, depending on the behavior of fools.

_Highlights a deeper wisdom of social awareness and restraint._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_5_se/chapters/when-he-should-laugh
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_5_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_5_se/chapters