Hokum is a term that refers to something that is humorous, exaggerated, or deliberately misleading. It is often used in the context of entertainment, particularly in music and comedy. Hokum can be seen as a form of satire or parody, where the intent is to entertain and amuse audiences by presenting something that is intentionally over-the-top or ridiculous.
In music, hokum was popular in the early 20th century, particularly in blues and jazz. Musicians would often incorporate humorous or nonsensical lyrics into their songs, along with playful and catchy melodies. These songs were meant to be light-hearted and fun, providing a break from more serious or emotional music.
In comedy, hokum can take the form of slapstick humor, puns, and jokes that are intentionally corny or cheesy. Comedians may use hokum to entertain audiences and elicit laughter, often relying on exaggerated physical gestures or silly antics to get a reaction. Overall, hokum is a form of entertainment that doesn’t take itself too seriously and aims to bring joy and laughter to those experiencing it.