Why Not?

Wacky, Zany and Proud — At Any Age.

Recently, an exchange unfolded under one of my promotional posts for MattTaylorTV! — a light-hearted advertisement celebrating my channel’s “wacky, zany and crazy” content. A viewer using the name Infinity Knight took issue with that description, writing:
“wacky, zany and crazy is hardly a tag you'd want to be proud of closing in on your 60's.”

It was a curious remark. I responded with a simple, neutral question:

“Why not?”

Rather than explain or engage, Infinity Knight replied:

“Your reply says it all.”

That short interaction is telling. It shows how some criticism isn’t really about reason or dialogue, but about status, shaming, and shutting conversation down.

Age as a Weapon.

At its core, the original comment wasn’t a critique of content — it was an age jab. “Closing in on your 60’s” was added for one reason: to shame. It suggests that wacky, zany, and crazy are reserved for the young, as though creativity, playfulness and humour have an expiry date. But that’s a cultural assumption — not a truth. Some of the most innovative comedians, writers, and performers keep their wild streak alive well past middle age. Reinventing yourself and having fun isn’t childish; it’s a refusal to become stagnant.

A Tactic to Control the Conversation.

My reply, “Why not?”, was an open invitation to reason. If someone believes it’s inappropriate to be playful past a certain age, let them explain why. But instead of giving an argument, Infinity Knight sidestepped. “Your reply says it all” isn’t an answer; it’s a conversation ender. It’s a way to maintain superiority without proving a point — an evasive move dressed up as finality.

This tactic is common in online interactions. Someone makes a sweeping judgment; when questioned, they retreat into vagueness, hoping the dismissive tone alone will win the exchange. It’s not debate, it’s posturing.

The Value of Staying Playful.

The deeper issue is the assumption that life should narrow with age — that “seriousness” equals maturity. But staying wacky and playful is a kind of resilience. It’s how people avoid becoming bitter and closed-minded. Creativity thrives on curiosity and the courage to look silly now and then. Age doesn’t disqualify someone from laughter, experimentation or colour.

In fact, refusing to shrink under age-based expectations is a quiet act of rebellion. Many of the world’s most engaging voices — broadcasters, comedians, storytellers — refuse to stop being fun just because decades have passed.

A Better Answer.

If I wanted to reply further, I might say:

“Better wacky at 60 than bitter at any age.”
“Creativity doesn’t come with an expiry date.”
“Staying playful keeps you young — no matter the birth certificate.”

But, in truth, my first answer — “Why not?” — was perfect. It exposed the hollowness behind the insult. When someone has no real reasoning, they will show it quickly.

Conclusion.

That short exchange isn’t just about me; it’s a snapshot of a bigger cultural push to make people “act their age” — a phrase that usually means “shrink your world.” But staying wacky and zany is not immaturity; it’s vitality. The refusal to let cynicism win is its own kind of wisdom.

If someone’s only critique is that joy and playfulness should end when you approach 60, the best answer really is the one I gave: Why not?