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How to Draw Cartoons > How to get cartoon ideas

The gold nuggets of this industry are, of course, the ideas. If you think Jeter was elated when he struck number 3,000, you should see a cartoonist when he finally dreams up a gag.

"Where do you get your ideas?" is the question that has driven so many of the boys batty. You better be prepared to have that one thrown at you over and over again if you have any intention of remaining in the trade. And never does a cartoonist look dumber than when he's trying to think of the answer. Where do I get my ideas? Why, they come from, er... you see, that is ...

Let's face it, ideas are hard to get. The guy who tells you they're not is either being entirely too modest or he simply steals them.

"I got a great idea for you," people will say when they learn you are a cartoonist. You'll listen very patiently and try to keep that pained look off your face. If it happens to be a friend, you'll perhaps manage a sickly smile, and murmur "Not bad," But your friend will be hurt to the core by your lack of enthusiasm. He'll never give you another idea for drawing - till next time.



The longer you stay in the business the grimmer the task of getting ideas becomes. At parties people will be amazed to learn that the morose fellow sitting alone in a corner is the celebrated cartoonist who turns out all those very funny belly laughs.

Some standard methods of getting gags for cartoons.

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