In a personal account from the comedy scene, Jane Howard shares her experiences of being teased by stand-up comics for her loud and infectious laughter. She recalls a specific incident with comic Daniel Kitson, who told her to laugh '10% less' so as not to overwhelm the other audience members. Despite the teasing, Howard remains unapologetic about her laughter, viewing it as a necessary expression of her joy and a vital part of her enjoyment of comedy shows.

Howard discusses the societal pressures to suppress outward expressions of joy, especially in settings where others might find it excessive or distracting. She notes that being singled out by comedians has become a regular occurrence, and while it can be embarrassing, it also underlines her authenticity as an audience member who fully engages with the performance. This duality of joy and discomfort evokes the broader conversation about personal expression and acceptance within social contexts.

Ultimately, Howard champions the idea that laughter should not be suppressed despite the discomfort it may cause in others. Her narrative reinforces the notion that joy is a personal experience that should be embraced and shared, even if it attracts playful critiques. In a world where laughter has significant positive effects on mental health, Howard’s determination to laugh freely serves as a reminder of the importance of expressing joyful emotions without fear of judgment.