Two new books shed light on the perpetual battle between comedy and censorship throughout history.
In today’s increasingly sensitive and politically charged climate, comedy has found itself at the center of a heated debate. The rise of cancel culture and the fear of backlash have led many comedians to question whether it’s still possible to be funny in the modern world. However, two new books, “Outrageous: A History of Showbiz and the Culture Wars” by Kliph Nesteroff and “Comedy Book: How Comedy Conquered Culture — and the Magic That Makes It Work” by Jesse David Fox, challenge this notion. By delving into the history of showbiz and examining the complexities of comedy, these books offer a fresh perspective on the challenges faced by comedians throughout the ages.
Showbiz and the Culture Wars: A Historical Perspective
Nesteroff’s “Outrageous” takes readers on a journey through the annals of showbiz, revealing a recurring pattern of entertainers grappling with the censorious climate of their respective eras. From Steve Allen’s complaints about the “very touchy times” in 1955 to Jerry Seinfeld’s warning about college audiences’ sensitivities in 2015, Nesteroff demonstrates that the fear of backlash and censorship is nothing new. By examining vintage letters to the editor, he shows that the sentiment of people being overly sensitive and humorless has always been present, even before the advent of social media. This historical perspective challenges the notion that cancel culture is a uniquely modern phenomenon.
The Risk of Backlash: Embracing the Challenge
In “Comedy Book,” Fox tackles the question of whether political correctness makes comedy harder to do. He argues that the risk of backlash is an integral part of the comedy landscape. Drawing on his experience as a senior editor at New York magazine’s Vulture and as a podcaster interviewing comedians, Fox compares the challenge of political correctness to holding a football while running for a touchdown. It may make the game harder, but it also adds excitement and tension. By reframing the debate, Fox encourages comedians to embrace the challenge rather than shy away from it, recognizing that pushing boundaries is what makes comedy truly exciting.
The Magic of Comedy: Uniting and Challenging Society
Both books highlight the power of comedy to bring people together and challenge societal norms. Nesteroff’s exploration of showbiz history reveals how comedians have always been at the forefront of pushing boundaries and sparking important conversations. From Lenny Bruce’s groundbreaking stand-up routines to Dave Chappelle’s provocative sketches, comedy has the ability to challenge the status quo and shed light on uncomfortable truths. Fox’s “Comedy Book” further emphasizes how comedy has conquered culture, shaping our understanding of the world and providing a platform for marginalized voices.
Conclusion: A Call for Nuance and Understanding
As the debate surrounding cancel culture and comedy rages on, these two books offer valuable insights into the challenges faced by comedians throughout history. By examining the past, we can gain a better understanding of the present and move toward a more nuanced and empathetic approach to comedy. While the risks and challenges may be greater today, the power of comedy to unite and challenge society remains unchanged. By embracing the risk of backlash and pushing boundaries, comedians can continue to shape culture and provoke important conversations that push us forward as a society.
In the end, comedy is a reflection of our times, and it is through the laughter and discomfort that we can truly understand ourselves and the world we live in.
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