In Steve Martin's "Born Standing Up: A Comic's Life," he explores the dynamics of comedy, particularly the role of punch lines and audience expectations. He poses provocative questions about the nature of humor, suggesting that if comedians refrained from delivering traditional punch lines, they could build tension without immediate relief. This approach might lead audiences to decide for themselves when to laugh, creating a more organic, powerful response based on their own interpretations of the material.

Martin proposes that this type of audience engagement could redefine the experience of comedy, making laughter a personal act rather than a prescribed response. By denying the audience the conventional structure of a joke, he suggests that they might find humor in unexpected places, driven by their own interpretations. This technique could enhance the overall impact of a performance, as the laughter that emerges would be a result of individual choice, ultimately fostering a deeper connection between the performer and the audience.