I laughed derisively.For goodness' sake, don't start gargling now. This is serious.I was laughing.
P.G. Wodehouse captures a humorous moment where laughter interrupts a serious situation. The speaker dismisses someone's attempt to take things lightly, suggesting that the gravity of the moment should not be undermined, despite their own amusement. This creates a juxtaposition between the seriousness of the scene and the lightheartedness of the speaker's reaction.
Wodehouse's writing often blends humor with serious themes, showcasing the absurdities of life. In this instance, the laughter serves as a coping mechanism, highlighting the absurdity of the situation. It emphasizes how humor can emerge even when circumstances are dire, reminding readers not to take everything too seriously.
