Meaning: This quote is an infamous quip by the American composer and pianist Oscar Levant, in which he humorously references the public persona of the actress and singer Doris Day. The quote is often interpreted as a witty comment on Day's wholesome and pure image, which was carefully cultivated and maintained throughout her career in the entertainment industry.

Doris Day was a beloved figure in American popular culture during the mid-20th century. She first gained attention as a big band singer in the 1940s before transitioning to a successful career in film. Known for her girl-next-door charm, radiant smile, and wholesome on-screen persona, Day became synonymous with the archetype of the "girl next door" in Hollywood. Her roles often depicted her as the epitome of innocence and virtue, and she was celebrated for her clean-cut image and sunny disposition.

Oscar Levant's quip about Day is a clever play on words that subverts her wholesome image by suggesting that there was a time when she was not perceived as such. By stating, "I can remember Doris Day before she was a virgin," Levant is drawing attention to the stark contrast between Day's public persona and the more complex reality of her personal life and career trajectory. The quote is often interpreted as a sardonic commentary on the artificiality of Hollywood personas and the public's perceptions of celebrities.

It's important to note that Oscar Levant was known for his acerbic wit and irreverent sense of humor. His comment about Doris Day should be understood in the context of his personality and the era in which he lived. Levant was a highly talented but troubled individual who struggled with mental health issues, and his sharp-tongued remarks were often a way for him to cope with his own inner turmoil.

In addition to being a talented performer, Day was also known for her private life, which was the subject of much speculation and gossip. Despite her carefully crafted image, she experienced personal challenges and romantic entanglements that were at odds with her public persona. This dissonance between Day's wholesome image and her personal experiences adds depth to Levant's quip and invites further reflection on the complexities of celebrity culture.

Ultimately, Oscar Levant's quote about Doris Day is a memorable and thought-provoking expression of the tension between public personas and private realities in the world of entertainment. It serves as a reminder that the images projected by celebrities are often carefully constructed and curated, and that there may be more to a person than meets the eye. The quote has endured as a wry commentary on the nature of fame and the intricate dynamics of celebrity culture.