Sarcasm & Sensitivity

 

By Terry Deck, Exec. Vice President

 

 

Sarcasm is shown in the “t” bar which ends with a sharp point.  Sarcasm can take many forms such as sarcasm toward others or the self.  When used in a joking way sarcastic people can be quite witty; however, sarcasm is always used to keep others at bay.  A sort of “I will make fun of myself so when someone else makes fun of me it makes it a joke” and not a form of ridicule.  Sarcasm toward others is also a form of protection.  The sarcasm is directed at the other person first; therefore, blunting the edge of whatever the other person was going to say.  The sarcastic person is actually saying, “leave me alone” or “don’t hurt me because I can hurt you also.” 

 

Sensitivity, on the other hand, is when an individual gets their feelings hurt at the slightest thing or sometimes just imagines that others are criticizing him.  This could be sensitivity regarding personal appearance, mannerisms, or choice of clothing styles and is found in the upper loop on the stem of the “d”.  Other subjects that are sensitive to individuals are 

religion, philosophy, and morality shown by a loop in the “t” stem.  The overly sensitive individual has a hard time relating to others because he often thinks that others are making fun of him or being overly critical.

 

Sensitivity and Sarcasm often go hand-in-hand.  Individuals who are overly sensitive often use sarcasm as a form of protection.  They tell the world right up front that they are immune to criticism by criticizing themselves before anyone else can do so.  This is where the sarcasm comes in to play.  Even if the sarcasm is used in a witty way, it is still a form of protection. 

 

When an individual is both sensitive and sarcastic, these traits can help balance each other.  The sarcasm is used less as a weapon and the individual is more sensitive to others feelings.  Although we laugh right along with the witty sarcasm used by some individuals, we need to be sensitive also and realize that this person is showing a lack of self-confidence.  Penmaster@thewrittentruth.com