Meaning: The quote "Sodomy is in the Bible, to be read in churches. I wouldn't rule it out of Mr. Bruce's act if he cares to comment on it" by Dorothy Kilgallen is a statement that reflects the controversial and provocative nature of comedian Lenny Bruce's acts in the 1960s. Dorothy Kilgallen, an American journalist and television personality, made this comment while discussing the performance of Lenny Bruce, known for his unapologetically explicit and challenging material.

In this quote, Kilgallen is acknowledging the presence of controversial and taboo subjects in the Bible, and she suggests that the inclusion of such topics in Bruce's act would not be surprising. The reference to sodomy, a term often associated with sexual behavior considered taboo or forbidden, highlights the boundary-pushing nature of Bruce's comedy and the societal norms he challenged through his performances.

Lenny Bruce was a groundbreaking and polarizing figure in the world of stand-up comedy. He was known for addressing taboo subjects such as sex, religion, and politics in a candid and often confrontational manner. Bruce's willingness to tackle controversial topics and challenge social taboos made him a target of censorship and legal battles, but also earned him a devoted following among those who appreciated his fearless approach to comedy.

Dorothy Kilgallen's comment about not ruling out sodomy from Bruce's act if he chose to comment on it reflects the complex and contentious public reception of Bruce's performances. While some viewed his material as offensive and inappropriate, others saw it as a form of social commentary and a means of challenging conventional thinking.

The reference to the Bible in Kilgallen's quote also touches on the intersection of religion and controversial discourse. By acknowledging the presence of sensitive topics in religious texts, she indirectly calls attention to the role of religion in shaping societal attitudes towards certain subjects. This aligns with the themes that Lenny Bruce often explored in his comedy, as he frequently questioned the influence of organized religion and its impact on moral and ethical standards.

It is important to consider the historical context in which Lenny Bruce and Dorothy Kilgallen were operating. The 1960s were a time of significant social change and cultural upheaval in the United States, with movements for civil rights, women's liberation, and sexual freedom challenging traditional norms and values. Bruce's confrontational style and willingness to address taboo topics aligned with the spirit of rebellion and questioning that characterized the era.

In conclusion, Dorothy Kilgallen's quote about sodomy, the Bible, and Lenny Bruce's act encapsulates the provocative and boundary-pushing nature of Bruce's comedy, as well as the societal and cultural tensions that surrounded his performances. By referencing the presence of controversial topics in religious texts and suggesting that such material would not be out of place in Bruce's act, Kilgallen acknowledges the confrontational and challenging nature of his comedy. This quote serves as a reminder of the impact that Lenny Bruce had on the world of stand-up comedy and the broader cultural conversations of his time.