David Letterman

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David Letterman

Anyone that has met, seen, heard of, or listened to David Letterman can

immediately tell he has a likable and humorous personality. Anyone studying him can

see that his “clowning,” as he called it, is more than simple clowning in its accepted

sense. In inventing weird disasters and making up places that did not exist, which he did quite often as a weather man for channel 13, he was indulging himself in another facet of his complicated humor. It was “nonsense”-nothing more, nothing less. And the nonsense that David found most compatible with his sense of humor was fragile, soap-bubble thin, and as transparent as butterfly wings. This easygoing, laid back sense of humor has brought him were he is today.

On the other hand, anyone that has met Garrett Scharton has more than likely

been stung by his sarcastic, witty remarks. His sense of humor, derived from his ever-

changing childhood, has taught him to always “be on his toes.” Garrett’s hardships in his early years have opened his eyes to see the lighter side of everything to keep his sanity. This sometimes gets in his way of experiencing new things. The lingering insecurities in the back of his mind, which are shadowed by his unsurpassed wit, put a wall in front of anyone trying to get close.

David Letterman and Garrett Scharton’s sense of humor are comparable in two

ways. David’s peachy, childish remarks surprise even the most intelligent of observers.

He cracks jokes, plays pranks, and “clowns around,” to have fun. He makes people laugh

to hear them have a good time. While Garrett, stings with words to keep people at a

distance. David jokes around to have fun, while Garrett does it for protection.

All throughout his life David performed sub-par academically compared to his

older and younger sisters. His “C” average convinced him to lower his goal for going to

Indiana State, and settle for Ball State. His less than professional training as a radio talk show host gave him a chance to find his own, special angle to look at news, politics, and daily life. He now gives a lot of credit for his successful career to Ball State. In 1985, to show his appreciation to Ball State, he funded a scholarship that is eligible for “C” students only.

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