Copywriting Tips From Laurel & Hardy

Who doesn't know Laurel & Hardy? Sadly, plenty of people. Today's generation is far too busy and preoccupied to get to know some of the film's silent era's greatest comedians. But, that's another story. What could advertisers, copywriters, and content people learn from one of comedy's greatest duos?

If you must make a noise, make it quietly. - Oliver Hardy

Sometimes, if you want to promote something new, exciting, different, the best way to do it, is quietly.

You can lead a horse to water, but a pencil must be led - Stan Laurel

Yes, you can be clever, creative, and meet your goals.

Humor is the truth; wit is an exaggeration of the truth - Stan Laurel

Very similar to advertising. Know where to exaggerate (situation - such as, someone's relatives are knights), and where not to (features/benefits.)

I had a dream that I was awake, and awoke to find myself asleep - Stan Laurel

When you come up with an idea, it's sometimes useful to flip them. On occasion, the reverse version will actually come out better.

I'm not as dumb as you look - Stan Laurel

When you make the users look dumb, you lose him for good. When you make them feel smart, you gain not just them as customers, but also potentially their friends and family members.

"You know, there's a right and wrong way to do everything." - Oliver Hardy

Meaning: There's a complicated way and an uncomplicated way of doing copywriting.

Happy hour

Ollie: "Call me a cab."

Stan: "You're a cab."

On many occasions, especially when it comes to copywriting, content, advertising and promotion in general, people get so caught up they tend to overthink. Don't.

"We'd like a room with a southern explosion." - Stan Laurel

Make 'em laugh. It almost always works.

"Hey listen. Don't you think you're bounding over your steps ?" - Stan Laurel

Meaning: There's a complicated way and uncomplicated way of doing copywriting. .d

"I have nothing to say." - Oliver Hardy

Sometimes, all you need is an image. When? Now that's the trick...

Well, here’s another nice mess you’ve gotten me into." - Oliver Hardy

Showcasing a real-life mess we've all had in a humorous way is always good.

"Excuse me please, my ear is full of milk." - Oliver Hardy

Nothing comes up? Get away from the computer/table/phone and go for a walk, or even away from the project and move on to something else. You'll never know when inspiration will hit you.

Well, I heard the ocean is infatuated with sharks - Stan Laurel

Imagine such a quote superimposed on a serene image of an ocean with sharks. What's the reader supposed to think?

"We'll give 'em enough rope so we can hang ourselves." - Stan Laurel

Translation: If we screw this promo up, will compensate you big time!

If you want me to go, I’ll stay as long as you like. - Stan Laurel

With the excess of chatbots, people want to know that there's an actual human someplace out there ready to listen. "We're here for you" or "need help with your purchase? Speak to one of our representatives" can go a long way.

Brainstorming