Two New Books Shed Light on the Perennial Battle between Comedy and Censorship
In an era characterized by heightened sensitivities and the rise of cancel culture, the question of whether comedy can thrive in today’s climate has become a hot topic of debate. Two recently released 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, delve into the complexities of comedy and its relationship with societal norms. These books challenge the notion that there has never been a worse time for comedians to express themselves, offering a historical perspective that sheds light on the cyclical nature of outrage and censorship in the entertainment industry.
The Perpetual State of Despair
Nesteroff’s “Outrageous” takes readers on a journey through the history of showbiz, revealing a recurring pattern of entertainers bemoaning the censorious climate of their time. From Steve Allen in 1955 to Jerry Seinfeld in 2015, comedians have consistently expressed frustration with the perceived sensitivities of their audiences. Nesteroff highlights that the advent of social media may give the impression of heightened irrationality and humorlessness, but historical evidence suggests that these sentiments have always existed, albeit in different forms. Letters to the editor from bygone eras echo the same concerns expressed by today’s comedians, demonstrating that the battle between comedy and censorship is not a new phenomenon.
Embracing Backlash as Part of the Game
In “Comedy Book,” Fox, a senior editor at New York magazine’s Vulture, argues that the risk of backlash is an integral part of comedy’s essence. He compares it to the challenge of holding a football while running for a touchdown, stating that the difficulty adds excitement and makes the art form more thrilling. Fox acknowledges that political correctness can make comedy harder to do, but he sees it as an inherent aspect of the game. By embracing the limitations and navigating the boundaries, comedians are forced to be more creative and innovative in their approach. Fox’s perspective challenges the notion that political correctness is stifling comedy, suggesting instead that it is a catalyst for the evolution of the art form.
Comedy as a Reflection of Society
Both books explore the idea that comedy is not just a form of entertainment but also a reflection of societal norms and values. Nesteroff’s historical analysis reveals how comedians throughout the ages have pushed boundaries and challenged prevailing attitudes. From Lenny Bruce’s provocative stand-up routines in the 1960s to Dave Chappelle’s controversial Netflix specials, comedians have often been at the forefront of social commentary, using humor to critique and challenge the status quo. Fox’s “Comedy Book” delves into the mechanics of comedy, examining how timing, delivery, and context shape the impact of a joke. He argues that comedy has the power to spark conversations and provoke thought, making it a vital tool for social change.
The Evolving Landscape of Comedy
Both Nesteroff and Fox acknowledge that comedy is constantly evolving, adapting to the changing cultural and societal landscape. They recognize that what may have been considered acceptable or funny in the past may not resonate with contemporary audiences. However, this does not mean that comedy is dead or that it is impossible to be funny in today’s climate. Rather, it requires comedians to be more thoughtful and aware of the potential consequences of their jokes. The books emphasize the importance of context, intention, and empathy in comedy, urging comedians to consider the impact of their words while still pushing boundaries and challenging societal norms.
Conclusion:
The debate surrounding comedy and censorship is not a new one, as evidenced by the historical accounts presented in Kliph Nesteroff’s “Outrageous” and Jesse David Fox’s “Comedy Book.” These books provide valuable insights into the cyclical nature of outrage and the challenges faced by comedians throughout history. While the current climate may present unique obstacles, it is clear that comedy has always been a battleground between free expression and societal sensitivities. By understanding the historical context and embracing the evolving nature of comedy, we can appreciate the art form’s ability to provoke thought, challenge norms, and ultimately shape our culture. As long as there are boundaries to be pushed and conversations to be had, comedy will continue to thrive, even in the face of outrage.
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