Meaning: The quote "It is guaranteed to put all teeth on edge, including George Washington's, wherever they might be" is a statement made by Vincent Canby, a renowned critic. This quote is often used to describe a piece of work, typically within the context of art, literature, or film, that evokes a strong and uncomfortable reaction in its audience or viewers. It implies that the work in question is so jarring or unsettling that it would even disturb the deceased George Washington, the first President of the United States, if he were able to experience it.

Vincent Canby, the author of the quote, was a notable film and theater critic for The New York Times. Known for his sharp wit and incisive commentary, Canby had a talent for capturing the essence of a work in a concise and memorable manner. His reviews were widely read and respected, making his opinions influential in the world of entertainment and the arts.

When Canby states that a piece of work is "guaranteed to put all teeth on edge," he is alluding to the discomfort or unease that the work provokes. This phrase suggests a visceral reaction, one that is so intense that it affects the very core of the audience's being. By mentioning George Washington, Canby adds a historical and patriotic dimension to the statement, implying that the work in question is so disturbing that it would even affect a figure as revered as the first President of the United States.

The phrase "wherever they might be" adds a touch of humor and whimsy to the quote. It acknowledges the absurdity of imagining George Washington's teeth being affected by a modern work of art or culture, while also reinforcing the idea that the impact of the work is so profound that it transcends time and space.

It's important to note that this quote is often used in a lighthearted or hyperbolic manner. While it effectively conveys the intensity of a particular work's impact, it is also a playful way of expressing strong disapproval or discomfort. Canby's use of language here is both evocative and entertaining, making the quote memorable and frequently cited in discussions of challenging or polarizing works of art.

In conclusion, Vincent Canby's quote "It is guaranteed to put all teeth on edge, including George Washington's, wherever they might be" is a clever and vivid way of expressing the unsettling and discomforting nature of a particular work. Through his skillful use of language and wit, Canby captures the essence of the work's impact, while also infusing the quote with humor and historical reference. As a result, the quote has become a well-known and oft-cited expression of intense and divisive art and culture.