In *Watchmen*, Rorschach is reminded by The Comedian of a joke he heard once:

[![](https://i.stack.imgur.com/DrhoN.jpg)](https://i.stack.imgur.com/DrhoN.jpg)

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> “Heard joke once: Man goes to doctor. Says he's depressed. Says life seems harsh and cruel. Says he feels all alone in a threatening world where what lies ahead is vague and uncertain. Doctor says, "Treatment is simple. Great clown Pagliacci is in town tonight. Go and see him. That should pick you up." Man bursts into tears. Says, "But doctor...I am Pagliacci.”
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Was this an actual joke outside of *Watchmen*? And if it was, was it ever told in a manner that deserved laughter and a roll on snare drums?

[![](https://i.stack.imgur.com/oYGxI.jpg)](https://i.stack.imgur.com/oYGxI.jpg)