We should consider every day lost on which we have not danced at least once. And we should call every truth false which was not accompanied by at least one laugh.

Dancing and laughter become tests of whether a day or a truth has been fully lived. The deliberate exaggeration challenges a solemn view of what matters. Joy is treated as part of understanding, suggesting that seriousness without delight may leave something essential out of human experience.

Context reviewed 28 September 2026