persiflagologist

One who studies, uses, appreciates, and furthers the use of persiflage, and particularly its use as a creative and constructive art form when used in the midst of what should be a serious discussion (see below) i.e. to lighten the mood and introduce a quantitatively and qualitatively appropriate bit of humor which does not disrupt but facilitates further constructive discussion. Therefore, the true persiflagologist does not abuse her/her verbal, intellectual and interpersonal skills but, like any other deft artist, uses a splash of color, movement or sound to play a constructive role in the midst of serious discussion.

Professor Smidghley-Smythe of Western Southwicke College was famous for his witty comments, which he pointed out were persiflage, which is generally seen as witty, light-hearted raillery. He was a true persiflagologist. For example, he further pointed out, in the Disney version of the Mad Hatter's Tea Party the Mad Hatter states "Enough of this persiflage." However, according to at least one source the word may have a much deeper meaning, i.e. trivial or light-hearted comments "introduced into what should be a serious discussion" and therefore may be a constructive and creative use of a high level of verbal and interpersonal skill.

Therefore, his scholarly approach to the matter qualifies him not only as one who uses persiflage but as a persiflagologist.

by picsbyalf February 27, 2010