Well, perhaps just a little deranged, thinking of Mad March Hares. But of course they're not at all. Performing, so that they might look a bit mad, playing a role yes, but no, not mad. However, pretending to be a little mad - which confers certain privileges if you're a human - can be useful if you're being entertaining if not outrageous, irreverent if not sacrilegious. Then not-quite-acceptable, perhaps even disgraceful remarks may be seen as no more than slightly irresponsible as you provide laughs, a diversion, or even (or especially) an insight... Now we're moving into an interesting area. Poets often grant themselves this permission, as of course do comedians. Which brings the role of the Jester to mind - the classic stand-up, generating their own material on the spot in response to the conversation and company, risk-taking for sure, but in sailing so close to the wind, they travel fast, free and light - and impress the onlookers. When, I wonde