Meaning: This quote by Rory Bremner, a well-known British comedian and impressionist, reflects a satirical commentary on the political landscape in the UK during the 1990s. In this quote, Bremner is highlighting the irony and perhaps the hypocrisy of politicians, particularly Tony Blair and Jack Straw, who were prominent figures in the Labour Party at the time.

In the early 1990s, Tony Blair and Jack Straw were vocal advocates for civil liberties, human rights, and progressive policies. They were seen as the face of the "New Labour" movement, which sought to modernize the party and move it away from its traditional socialist roots. Blair and Straw's speeches during this period often emphasized the importance of individual freedoms, social justice, and equality.

However, Bremner's quote suggests that there is something inherently contradictory or even comical about the idea of "selling" these speeches. By using the term "terribly revolutionary," Bremner is poking fun at the notion of these once idealistic and radical speeches being commodified or commercialized. The implication is that the content of these speeches, which was once considered groundbreaking and progressive, has been reduced to a commodity that can be bought and sold for profit.

Bremner's choice of words also hints at a sense of disillusionment or skepticism towards the political rhetoric of the time. The use of "terribly revolutionary" may be a play on the idea that the principles espoused in these speeches were once seen as revolutionary, but have since been co-opted or diluted for political expediency.

Furthermore, the quote touches on the broader theme of political satire and the role of comedians in critiquing the actions and statements of public figures. Bremner, known for his impersonations of politicians, often used humor to shine a light on the contradictions and absurdities of the political elite. In this case, he is drawing attention to the perceived gap between the lofty ideals expressed in political speeches and the subsequent actions or policies of the speakers.

It's important to note that Bremner's quote should be understood within the context of the specific political climate of the 1990s in the UK. During this period, there was a significant shift in the Labour Party's approach to governance, and figures like Blair and Straw were at the forefront of this transformation. The quote captures a moment in time when the promises and rhetoric of politicians were being scrutinized and, in some cases, ridiculed by the public and media.

In conclusion, Rory Bremner's quote serves as a pointed commentary on the political dynamics of the 1990s, using humor and irony to highlight the perceived contradictions and commercialization of political speeches. It reflects a broader tradition of political satire and critique, and offers insight into the ways in which public figures and their words are scrutinized and interpreted by the public and comedians alike.