So I’m listening to KPCC (Pasadena public radio station) one Saturday night in 1994. It was around 11pm. I was home because law school had been sucking the mojo out of me. They were interviewing Sid Caesar, who was talking about his life in comedy. The host encouraged listeners to call in. A chance to talk with a comedy legend? I figured I’d never get through. I was wrong. I don’t have the transcript, but I do have memory of the gist of the conversation—immaturity and arrogance of a young law student and all…

HOST: We’ve got Marc from Westwood. You’re on the air with Sid Caesar.

MARC: Holy shit! I can’t believe I’m talking with you!

HOST: You’re gonna need to watch your language. You’re live on the public airwaves.

MARC: I know, I know. I’m a law student. That’s why I’m home late on a Saturday night. I have no life. I actually think I can say a word like that at this hour. The Supreme Court found that the broadcast of George Carlin’s “Seven Dirty Words” was indecent because it was during the afternoon when kids could hear it. I heard it in the afternoon when I was 8, but on a record! Great routine!

HOST: You know this is Sid Caesar and not George Carlin, right?

MARC: Yes, I’m sorry. I love ‘em both. I’m just a little nervous. Mr. Caesar, thank you for sharing your gifts with us. You’re a genius. Your Show of Shows—best sketch show ever

HOST: Did you have a question for Mr. Caesar?

MARC: Okay, okay…  My question is, how is a 24-year-old aspiring comedian like me supposed to come up with new material? I mean, you’ve done everything!

SID CAESAR: Well, that’s very kind of you, Marc, was it? Remember: It’s not what you say, it’s how you say it. The topics may be the same—we’re all humans—but no one else sees them exactly the way you do, based on your experiences and your background. No one else has your unique perspective. It’s not what you say, it’s how you say it.

MARC: Brilliant. Thank you, Mr. Caesar! Isa no wattyusay, isa howayu say it.