Meaning: The quote "In olden days a glimpse of stocking was looked on as something shocking but now, God knows, anything goes" is a line from the song "Anything Goes" written by Cole Porter for the musical of the same name. This line reflects the changing social attitudes towards fashion, modesty, and behavior over time.

The musical "Anything Goes" debuted in 1934, and the lyrics of the song reflect the shifting societal norms of the time. In the early 20th century, it was considered scandalous for women to show even a glimpse of their stockings in public. The line captures the idea that what was once deemed improper or shocking in terms of fashion and behavior has become more widely accepted or even celebrated. The phrase "God knows, anything goes" suggests a sense of moral relativism, indicating that societal standards are no longer fixed and that almost anything is permissible.

At the time the musical was written, the 1920s and 1930s marked a period of significant social change, particularly in terms of women's fashion and behavior. The flapper era of the 1920s saw a departure from traditional Victorian values, with women embracing shorter hemlines, looser silhouettes, and more revealing styles. This departure from the conservative norms of the past was reflected in popular culture, including music, dance, and fashion.

The song "Anything Goes" captures this spirit of rebellion and non-conformity, celebrating the idea that social norms and expectations are in flux. The lyric "In olden days a glimpse of stocking was looked on as something shocking" serves as a reminder of the conservative attitudes of the past, while the subsequent line "but now, God knows, anything goes" reflects the more permissive and open-minded attitudes of the present.

Cole Porter, the composer of "Anything Goes," was known for his witty and sophisticated lyrics that often addressed social issues and cultural norms. In this particular song, Porter's clever wordplay and wry observations about societal change are evident. The line in question encapsulates the broader theme of the musical, which satirizes the conventions of high society and the chaos that ensues when traditional norms are upended.

The enduring popularity of "Anything Goes" and its iconic songs, including the titular number, testifies to the timeless appeal of its themes and the enduring relevance of its social commentary. The idea that "anything goes" has continued to resonate with audiences across generations, reflecting the ongoing evolution of societal attitudes and values.

In conclusion, the quote "In olden days a glimpse of stocking was looked on as something shocking but now, God knows, anything goes" from Cole Porter's "Anything Goes" encapsulates the shifting social attitudes towards fashion and behavior. It serves as a witty and insightful commentary on the changing norms of society, capturing the spirit of rebellion and non-conformity that characterized the early 20th century. Porter's lyrics continue to resonate with audiences, reminding us of the ever-changing nature of societal standards and the enduring relevance of his observations.