Non sequitur (literary device)

Not to be confused with a non sequitur in the sense of a formal fallacy.

A non sequitur (English: /nɒn ˈsɛkwɪtər/ non SEK-wit-ər, Classical Latin: [noːn ˈsɛkᶣɪtʊr]; "[it] does not follow") is a conversational literary device, often used for comedic purposes. It is something said that, because of its apparent lack of meaning relative to what preceded it,^[1] seems absurd to the point of being humorous or confusing. This use of the term is distinct from the non sequitur in logic, where it is a fallacy.^[2]

Etymology

The expression is Latin for "[it] does not follow".^[3] It comes from the words non meaning "not" and the verb sequi meaning "to follow".^[4]

Usage

A non sequitur can denote an abrupt, illogical, or unexpected turn in plot or dialogue by including a relatively inappropriate change in manner. A non sequitur joke sincerely has no explanation, but it reflects the idiosyncrasies, mental frames and alternative world of the particular comic persona.^[5]

Comic artist Gary Larson's The Far Side cartoons are known for what Larson calls "absurd, almost non sequitur animal" characters, such as talking cows, to create a bizarre effect. He gives the example of a strip where "two cows in a field gaze toward burning Chicago, saying 'It seems that agent 6373 had accomplished her mission.'"^[6]

See also

• Anacoluthon
• Anti-humor
• Dada
• Derailment (thought disorder)
• "Good day, fellow!" "Axe handle!"
• Gibberish
• Roger Irrelevant
• Surreal humour

References

1. The Oxford Pocket Dictionary of Current English. Oxford University Press, 2009.
2. "Non Sequitur - Examples and Definition of Non Sequitur". Literary Devices. 2014-01-02. Retrieved 2021-08-31.
3. Merriam Webster's Online Dictionary. http://mw1.m-w.com/dictionary/non%20sequitur Archived 2012-02-18 at the Wayback Machine
4. "Definition of NON SEQUITUR". www.merriam-webster.com. Retrieved 2021-08-31.
5. Chambers, Robert (2010). Parody: The Art that Plays with Art. Peter Lang Publishers. p. 75. ISBN 978-1433108693. Retrieved 2014-09-17. Along with a rhythmic pattern, these jokes, however absurd they may be, build dual frames of reference, if not alternative worlds entirely reflecting the idiosyncrasies of the individual stand-up artist.
6. Harrington, Richard (16 June 1983). "The Bizarre Side". Washington Post. Retrieved 12 August 2020.

Further reading

• The Koan: Texts and Contexts in Zen Buddhism. United Kingdom, Oxford University Press, 2000.
• Shabo, Magedah Rhetoric, Logic, and Argumentation: A Guide for Student Writers. United States, Prestwick House, 2010.

External links

• Getting It: Human Event-Related Brain Response to Jokes in Good and Poor Comprehenders - "When asked to pick the punch-line of a joke from an array of choices, including straightforward endings, non sequitur endings, and the correct punch-line, RHD patients erred by picking non sequitur endings, indicating that they know surprise is necessary"