In my first foray into Pencil Sharpening, merely a quick comment that I hope is not based on an errant reading of the information above. It appears that the definitions and descriptions above hinge the success of a joke on the unexpected. How is it then explained that I have heard the bear and the atheist joke countless times before, yet I still chuckled as I read it this time?

I suspect more than merely surprise is at work in creating a laugh.

A second comment, as well, and in violation of my opening statement (hoping I may be forgiven): endings are the MOST difficult thing for me in non-erotic writing. I will watch this thread off and on for that aspect if for nothing else.