Third problem: Is it OK to be silly?

All role playing games, in my experience, have an element of silliness in them. I think Gary Gygax even mentioned this in the DMG. But it doesn't mean people want silliness from adventure modules, especially not when mixed with straight content.

Goblins are a big feature in the adventure. They're vicious and brutal but also weak, mischievous, noisy and cunning. I like my goblins at least slightly silly.

There's a race of talking rabbits constantly trying to impose civil regulation on the rest of the dungeon. Evil imps that cast cantrips (proper ones, not Shocking Grasp etc). Goblins named Grabnutz and Noknob. A hyperactive hermit called Fozabar who wears a bear scalp hat.

Too silly?

Yes, it's okay to be silly. Let's face it, much of the world is silly depending upon your point of view. I think Tea Party folk standing around in 18th century clothing and demanding that Grover Norquist and the Koch brothers be made dictators of America are silly. But there they are. And let's not forget the sports fans who stand around topless in 30 degree weather with their chests painted in team colors.

Mental illness is more common than most people think too. Basic too much/too little chemicals in the brain causes a lot of havoc in the population, never mind actual disease and damage from head blows and such. Then there is rank stupidity and zero education standards. Hell, it's amazing anything ever got done in primitive societies. In fact, silliness is so common I suspect most people throughout history, including today, had to have built up a tolerance toward it lest society go into constant "witch hunt" mode to stamp some of it out.

Quote from: Juisarian;837625Third problem: Is it OK to be silly?

Just be cautious... Make sure and run it by some people. For my part I'm sometimes convinced that I'm much sillier/funnier than I actually am. Make sure you don't fall for that trap.