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English Learning | Bassem Youssef on Jon Stewart | 2022 Mark Twain Prize
When I started my career as a comedian, I had no intention of becoming a political satirist, but because of Jon, I became aware of political satire, channeling a very cheap knockoff version of ‘Daily Show.’ Things took an unexpected turn one fateful day when I was interrogated for six hours by government officials due to my controversial skits. Meanwhile, there were riots in the streets, tear gas clouding the air, and the military seized power from the Islamists. As the situation escalated, I faced lawsuits and defamation from all sides, yet I stood my ground. I could have stayed and become a sellout, a very rich sellout, but I chose to uphold my principles and continue my satire. Looking back, I find it really pathetic how some are willing to compromise their integrity for wealth and power.
New Words and Phrases
- But because of Jon, I became aware of political satire هجاء، تهكم
- Channeling a very cheap knockoff version of ‘Daily Show’ مقلدة
- I was interrogated for six hours استجواب
- There were also riots in the streets. أعمال شغب
- There were tear gas. غاز مسيل للدموع
- The military seized power from the Islamists. استولى على السلطة
- I faced lawsuits and defamation دعاوي قضائية وتشهير
- I could have stayed and be a sellout, a very rich sellout.
- “Sellout” is a slang term that is often used to describe someone who compromises their principles, integrity, or values in exchange for money, success, or personal gain
- I find it really pathetic مثير جدا للشفقة