Meaning: The quote "I once shook hands with Pat Boone and my whole right side sobered up" is a humorous and often cited remark attributed to the American actor and singer Dean Martin. It is an example of Martin's quick wit and charm, as well as his reputation for being a consummate entertainer and a master of comedic timing. The quote also reflects the playful rivalry and contrasting public personas of Martin and Boone, who were both prominent figures in the entertainment industry during the mid-20th century.

Dean Martin, born Dino Paul Crocetti, was a multi-talented performer known for his smooth singing voice, charismatic stage presence, and successful career in film and television. He became one of the most popular and enduring entertainers of his time, earning the nickname "The King of Cool" for his effortless charm and laid-back demeanor. Martin's career included successful collaborations with other renowned artists, such as Frank Sinatra and Sammy Davis Jr., as part of the Rat Pack, as well as a string of hit songs and films that solidified his status as a beloved celebrity.

Pat Boone, on the other hand, was a singer, actor, and writer who became one of the biggest stars of the 1950s and early 1960s. Known for his clean-cut image and smooth, easy-listening style, Boone was often seen as the antithesis of the edgier, more rebellious rock 'n' roll artists of the time, such as Elvis Presley. His wholesome image and chart-topping hits made him a teen idol and a household name, earning him a dedicated fan base and considerable commercial success.

The quote itself is a playful jab at the stark contrast between the perceived personalities of Dean Martin and Pat Boone. Martin, known for his suave and often debonair persona, was also famous for his love of the high life, including a well-documented fondness for alcohol and a devil-may-care attitude. In contrast, Pat Boone projected an image of clean living, moral values, and conservative sensibilities, which stood in stark contrast to the hard-partying reputation of many of his contemporaries in the entertainment industry.

The humor in the quote lies in the implication that Pat Boone's perceived wholesomeness and sobriety were so potent that even a mere handshake from him could have a sobering effect on someone like Dean Martin, whose reputation for revelry and indulgence was legendary. It's a clever and lighthearted way of highlighting the perceived differences between the two entertainers and playing on their public images.

Despite the humorous nature of the quote, it's important to note that it should be taken in the context of light-hearted banter and the playful spirit of show business. Both Dean Martin and Pat Boone were immensely talented individuals who made significant contributions to music, film, and popular culture, each in their own unique way. While the quote may playfully exaggerate their differences for comedic effect, it should be seen as a reflection of the entertainment industry's fondness for good-natured ribbing and humorous storytelling.

In conclusion, Dean Martin's quote about shaking hands with Pat Boone is a witty and humorous quip that reflects the playful rivalry and contrasting public personas of the two iconic entertainers. It serves as a lighthearted example of Martin's quick wit and charm, as well as a testament to the enduring appeal of both Martin and Boone in the annals of popular culture.