What stand-up comedian may do, having a symbolic impact (7)

I believe the answer is:

totemic

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'having a symbolic impact' is the definition.
(as in a totem pole)

I don't understand how the remainder of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for totemic that I've seen before include "like a sign" , "worship?" , "(Of an object) having spiritual significance" , "like an emblem" , "Emblematic, symbolic" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.

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