Meaning: This quote by Peter Bart, an American journalist and film producer, touches on the complex and often contentious relationship between the LGBTQ+ community and mainstream society. The term "velvet underground" in the quote refers to the subculture of the LGBTQ+ community, particularly in the context of the entertainment industry. It implies that even though gay lifestyles have become more visible and accepted to some extent, there is still a sense of subversion and marginalization that persists beneath the surface.

Bart's assertion that "there's little evidence that society has become more open in its basic attitudes" reflects a skepticism about the extent of societal progress in accepting and embracing LGBTQ+ individuals. Despite the increased visibility of gay lifestyles in the media and popular culture, Bart suggests that underlying attitudes and prejudices have not fundamentally shifted. This sentiment underscores the ongoing challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in navigating social acceptance and inclusion.

The phrase "entertainers should feel cozy in emerging from the velvet underground" speaks to the tension between authenticity and societal expectations within the entertainment industry. It suggests that even as LGBTQ+ entertainers may feel more emboldened to express their identities openly, there remains a lingering sense of vulnerability and uncertainty. The use of "cozy" juxtaposed with "emerging from the velvet underground" conveys a paradoxical notion of comfort and exposure, highlighting the complexity of being openly LGBTQ+ in the public eye.

In the context of the broader LGBTQ+ rights movement, Bart's quote raises important questions about the nature of societal change and the challenges that persist despite increased visibility and representation. The phrase "velvet underground" also harkens back to the history of LGBTQ+ subcultures and the resilience of these communities in the face of discrimination and marginalization.

The quote can be interpreted as a reminder that progress in LGBTQ+ rights and visibility is multifaceted and ongoing. While there may be greater representation of LGBTQ+ individuals in entertainment and media, underlying societal attitudes and prejudices cannot be easily overlooked. The notion of "emerging from the velvet underground" speaks to the ongoing struggle for LGBTQ+ individuals to assert their identities and experiences in a world that may still harbor biases and barriers to full acceptance.

In conclusion, Peter Bart's quote captures the nuanced and evolving dynamics of LGBTQ+ visibility and acceptance in mainstream society. It serves as a reminder that despite strides toward greater visibility and representation, the underlying attitudes and challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community cannot be overlooked. The notion of "emerging from the velvet underground" encapsulates the ongoing journey of LGBTQ+ individuals to navigate societal expectations while asserting their identities and experiences authentically.