Also, interesting that modern courses dominate this discussion.
Is it possible that the older controverial holes have been remodeled out of existence? Or, that people have just come to accept them because it takes time?
As to P2, I had the not so impressed until the second time I played it feel. Now its a fave. It is understated, not flashy, which may explain it, and the subtley grows on you, or at least me.
As to great jokes, here is one that still tickles me since I first heard it at age 12....
Man has no luck attracting women on the beach and asks hunky lifeguard for advice. Lifeguard suggests putting a potato in his swin trunks to get some attention, which he does, but has even less luck. He sees the lifeguard to ask why the plan didn't work and the lifeguard says, "Tomorrow, put the potato in the FRONT of your swim trunks!"
Sometimes, simple imagery and conjured up mental imagery just lasts longer than contrived or fantastic images. To me, that short joke captures a lot in a little bit of work, which perhaps is the essence of the popularity of our best courses, no?