Paul Di Filippo

Roald Dahl pioneered a new kind of literature for youngsters, one that dispensed with cant and solemnity, favoring anarchy and joy over duty and humbuggery while acknowledging that oftentimes no good deed goes unpunished. But ultimately, it was his sheer joie de vivre that carried the day.

American Writer

C. S. Lewis

Some people write heavily, some write lightly. I prefer the light approach because I believe there is a great deal of false reverence about. There is too much solemnity and intensity in dealing with sacred matters; too much speaking in holy tones.

British Writer

Maya Angelou

If you're serious, you really understand that it's important that you laugh as much as possible and admit that you're the funniest person you ever met. You have to laugh. Admit that you're funny. Otherwise, you die in solemnity.

American Poet

Queen Elizabeth II

I have been aware all the time that my peoples, spread far and wide throughout every continent and ocean in the world, were united to support me in the task to which I have now been dedicated with such solemnity.

English Royalty

Arthur Schopenhauer

There is no absurdity so palpable but that it may be firmly planted in the human head if you only begin to inculcate it before the age of five, by constantly repeating it with an air of great solemnity.

German Philosopher

Carmen Dell'Orefice

As a model, I didn't have an identity; I was a chameleon, a silent actress. I was an amorphous thing. I wasn't full of personality, I was full of solitude and solemnity. I wasn't a cover-girl type.

American Model

Soren Kierkegaard

Because of its tremendous solemnity death is the light in which great passions, both good and bad, become transparent, no longer limited by outward appearences.

Danish Philosopher

Ezra Pound

Gloom and solemnity are entirely out of place in even the most rigorous study of an art originally intended to make glad the heart of man.

Ambrose Bierce

Ability is commonly found to consist mainly in a high degree of solemnity.

American Journalist

Russell Baker

Caution: These verses may be hazardous to your solemnity.

Used to describe events or moments where respect and honor are paramount, often in cultural contexts.

Cultural Reverence

Solemnity is seriousness, but not necessarily sadness; it can accompany positive occasions too.

Not Sorrow

Often relates to formal and official events where a respectful demeanor is expected.

Formal Occasions

Indicates the presence of ceremonies that have significant traditional or legal importance.

Ceremonial Significance

Commonly used with religious or spiritual rituals that carry deep significance.

Religious Context

Applies to legal contexts, emphasizing the gravity and formality of the proceedings.

Legal Procedures

Describes holidays or remembrances that are observed with respect and seriousness.

Special Observances

Even celebratory events can be marked with solemnity, combining joy with respect.

Respectful Celebration

Public holidays aren't always solemnities, but some are recognized with a sober respect.

Public Holidays

 That's because it is hard for most people to recognize seriousness, which is rare, but more comfortable to endorse solemnity, which is commonplace. Jogging, which is commonplace, and widely accepted as good for you, is solemn.