It's Always Funny in Philadelphia

Dave Temple is not only a been someone who I’ve been working a lot with recently, but he’s also a comic that myself and a bunch of other comedians have noticed that has gotten significantly better in his comedy, as well as how serous he’s been taking it (he was recently featured in our ‘Comedians to Watch in 2013′ article where Clint Coley praised his talent).

I asked Dave to write an article for the site to give an insight to other comics who may be looking for a little inspiration in terms of keeping at it. Let me know if it was helpful!

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Motivations of a Stand Up

By Dave Temple

Comedians are modern day philosophers. We analyze our knowledge of life, present our understanding of ethics, religion, metaphysics and more. Veteran comedians have helped develop younger comedians similar to Socrates developing Plato.
Some audiences take our message with a grain of salt while others gain outlook that changes their way of thinking.
My present motivations as a stand up are rejuvenated with the realization that I have a tool and opportunity to create a body of work that can shape thoughts. I am a modern day philosopher.

I wanted to study philosophy in college. I didn’t out of fear that I would never find a job as a philosopher upon graduation. I chose seemingly more secure genres of study in Mathematics and Economics.

I blindly gravitated to a hobby of stand up comedy while working various jobs in my “field”. At the time I had no idea that I was actually on track to become what I wanted to be all along, a Philosopher.

I have been doing stand up since 2006. I have worked a series of high-level professional jobs along the way. The aspect of stand up that drove me toward a fulltime stand up career was the honesty. Most jobs require you to present yourself with a demeanor that’s appropriate for the situation. Often that demeanor is expected outside the workplace too, and it can consume your TRUE identity.

Stand up allows you to express your most honest thoughts and opinions.
Like other jobs, in stand up your demeanor on stage is also expected outside the workplace. The more honest you are with your audience the more honest you can be in your life. I love the freedom stand up has given me to be honest with myself and with everyone I encounter.

The realization that I am pursing my original goal to be a philosopher is the best motivation to continue doing what I do. As my world of comedy expands I surround myself with some of the best comedians around. I’m earning the respect and admiration of comedians/philosopher I respect and admire. I’m ascending into a category of not just being funny but talking about something relevant.
Are the topics I think about relevant to anyone else? Can I reach people? Is it funny? I will find out, and you will too as you see and hear more from Stand up comedian/Philosopher Dave Temple.

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Follow Dave Temple on twitter @ImDaveTemple or listen to him, Chris Cotton, and myself on the “It’s Always Funny in Philadelphia” podcast.