But in any case, thanks for the feedback. It’s useful for me to know what styles of writing are interpreted in what ways around here. Actually what I’m doing right now is experimenting to increase my chances of successfully communicating some of my important ideas in the future.
I think of it as a “wink”. It’s not quite hyperbole, but, let’s say, a literary device that sets the mood and expectations. Basically it says “I’m not being entirely serious here”.
See “microhumor” at http://slatestarcodex.com/2016/02/20/writing-advice/
But in any case, thanks for the feedback. It’s useful for me to know what styles of writing are interpreted in what ways around here. Actually what I’m doing right now is experimenting to increase my chances of successfully communicating some of my important ideas in the future.
I don’t think humor is in general a good defense for writing misleading headlines.
I don’t think “I engaged in a hostile action against outgroup X” is a good way to start humor. Cheering on humor like that produces bad dynamics.
Humor is not a defense, but a good idea. The headline is misleading only to people who can’t parse language properly.
I doubt that too many people felt they were “misled” by the headline. I think most people got the joke.
I was trying to come up with a literary term for the device used. It seems like it’s a thing.
Someone pointed out “dysphemism” as a term to me here. But that wasn’t right. Just a little hyperbole for dramatic effect? For contrast with the hug?
I think of it as a “wink”. It’s not quite hyperbole, but, let’s say, a literary device that sets the mood and expectations. Basically it says “I’m not being entirely serious here”.