Final answer:
The statement should include the term 'implicit' to describe the indirect nature of criticism in satire. Satire uses humor and exaggeration to subtly critique human follies, often requiring readers to reflect to understand its critical message.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement to complete is: "Satire may be brutal and scathing or gentle and good-natured, but it always involves a criticism that remains implicit rather than explicit." Satire is a literary approach that utilizes humor, exaggeration, or ridicule to criticize flaws in human behavior, be they ignorance, vice, or other follies. It stands out from both irony and parody, which may also be critical but are distinct in method. A key aspect of satire is its subtlety; it aims to present scenarios and narratives that reflect real life closely, often requiring the reader to reflect in order to grasp the satirical intent.
Famous examples of satire can be found in works by authors such as Jonathan Swift, who expertly combined humor with serious criticism in his writings. Writing satire demands a delicate balance, for if it's too overt, it can lose its effectiveness by revealing its critical standpoint prematurely. Instead, it must strip down practices to expose their inherent folly, allowing readers to identify with the critique based on their familiarity with the subject. The best satires leave the reader entertained and simultaneously enlightened about the underlying serious issues.