How to write a Bathos
Bathos can be used in a variety of ways. It is important to note that bathos can be used accidentally, as it was originally defined as the mistake of an amateur writer, or intentionally, as it is now used by comedians for its humorous effect. Bathos can result from serious treatment of something typically unserious, poetic descriptions of laughably common items, or overly exaggerated and inappropriate poeticism.
In order to use bathos,
- Illustrate a serious scene.
- Interrupt that scene with a commonplace, unpoetic subject.
For example, imagine a scene in which a boy and his girlfriend are arguing.
Serious scene:
Tommy and Anne were arguing again, and the subject was serious. If Tommy didn’t change his ways, Anne was threatening to break up with him.
Interruption using Bathos:
Anne could no longer deal with the pain and frustration of Tommy leaving the toilet seat up.
What sounds like a very serious argument turns into bathos when it is discovered that Anne’s most serious qualm is Tommy’s inability to put the toilet seat down.
For a second example, consider a serious reform discussion for middle schools.
Serious scene:
After much discussion, we have decided to make a major change. We believe this will improve the quality of life of our students, their attention to class, and their developing self-esteem.
Interruption using Bathos:
We are banning chewing gum.
Such a serious school reform could be the introduction of school uniforms or a new program to reduce bullying. Instead, chewing gum is the silly and unexpected change.
When to Use Bathos
Bathos unintentionally ruins poems, plays, and stories when it interrupts a serious scene. For this reason, bathos should be avoided in serious compositions such as tragic plays and formal speeches. On the other hand, bathos is a great tool to use in comedic pieces, turning serious scenes into surprisingly goofy and laughable scenes. Bathos can used in comedic songs, parodies, funny poems, humorous stories, advertisements, and movies.