Two new books shed light on the history of comedy and its ongoing battle against censorship and outrage culture.
In the era of cancel culture, where one wrong word or joke can lead to public shaming and professional consequences, many comedians have lamented the challenges of being funny in today’s climate. 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, offer a fresh perspective on this contentious issue. These books delve into the history of comedy and reveal that the struggle between comedians and societal sensitivities is not a recent phenomenon. By examining the past, we can gain a better understanding of the present and perhaps find a way forward.
The Perpetual Battle Against Censorship
Nesteroff’s “Outrageous” takes readers on a journey through the annals of showbiz, highlighting the recurring theme of entertainers grappling with a censorious climate. From the days of vaudeville to the present, comedians have faced challenges in pushing boundaries and testing societal norms. Nesteroff reveals that Steve Allen, the original host of “The Tonight Show,” voiced concerns about the “very touchy times” back in 1955. Similarly, in 2015, Jerry Seinfeld admitted that he had been cautioned against performing at colleges due to the hypersensitivity of students. This historical perspective reminds us that the struggle between comedians and censorship is not exclusive to our time but has been an ongoing battle throughout history.
The Illusion of Increased Sensitivity
Nesteroff also highlights the role of social media in amplifying the perception of hypersensitivity in society. While platforms like Twitter give the impression that people are more irrational and humorless than ever before, Nesteroff argues that vintage letters to the editor reveal remarkably similar sentiments from the past. This insight challenges the notion that cancel culture is a new phenomenon and suggests that the current outrage culture may be more a result of technological advancements than a genuine shift in societal values.
Comedy and the Risk of Backlash
Jesse David Fox, in “Comedy Book,” offers a different perspective on the issue, asserting that the risk of backlash is an essential part of comedy. As a senior editor at New York magazine’s Vulture and an experienced podcaster, Fox has interviewed numerous comedians and understands the delicate balance between pushing boundaries and facing consequences. He likens the challenge of political correctness to a football game, where the difficulty of holding the ball adds excitement to the sport. According to Fox, comedy thrives on the tension between societal expectations and the desire to provoke thought and laughter.
Adapting to a Changing Landscape
Both books highlight the resilience and adaptability of comedians in the face of adversity. Nesteroff’s historical account reveals how comedians have always found ways to navigate censorship and push boundaries, often using satire and subversive humor to convey their messages. Fox’s “Comedy Book” underscores the importance of embracing the risk of backlash and using it as a catalyst for creativity and innovation. Comedians today are finding new avenues for expression, such as podcasts and online platforms, allowing them to connect directly with their audience and bypass traditional gatekeepers.
Conclusion:
The debate surrounding cancel culture and its impact on comedy is far from settled. However, the insights provided by Kliph Nesteroff’s “Outrageous” and Jesse David Fox’s “Comedy Book” shed light on the historical context and ongoing struggle between comedians and societal sensitivities. These books remind us that comedy has always faced challenges and that adaptability and resilience are at the core of the art form. As we navigate the complexities of cancel culture, it is crucial to understand the rich history of comedy and the importance of preserving the freedom of expression while also being conscious of the impact our words can have.
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