Meaning: The quote "By the time I came down from Yale, I was already more radicalized and had begun to read New Masses" suggests a transformation in the speaker's beliefs and perspectives. The mention of Yale, a prestigious and traditionally conservative institution, juxtaposed with the notion of being radicalized and reading New Masses, a left-wing publication, highlights a significant shift in the speaker's ideological orientation. This quote is attributed to Albert Maltz, an American playwright and screenwriter known for his involvement in left-wing politics and his contributions to the New Masses magazine.

Albert Maltz was a prominent figure in the cultural and political landscape of the mid-20th century United States. Born in 1908, Maltz became associated with the Group Theatre, a prominent New York-based theater collective known for its socially conscious and politically engaged productions. Maltz's involvement with the Group Theatre exposed him to progressive ideas and activism, shaping his own political views and artistic pursuits.

The quote reflects Maltz's personal journey towards radicalization, a process that was likely influenced by the socio-political climate of the time. The interwar period and the Great Depression saw heightened class struggles and increased interest in leftist ideologies among intellectuals and artists. Maltz, like many of his contemporaries, was drawn to the ideals of socialism and communism, which offered critiques of capitalist society and promises of a more just and equitable world.

The mention of New Masses in the quote is significant as it was a prominent Marxist publication that provided a platform for writers, artists, and intellectuals to engage with radical politics and advocate for social change. Founded in 1926, New Masses featured literary works, political commentary, and art that reflected the left-wing and anti-fascist sentiments of its contributors. The magazine served as a forum for discussions on labor rights, racial equality, and anti-imperialism, making it a vital source of inspiration and information for individuals seeking alternative perspectives to mainstream narratives.

Maltz's exposure to New Masses likely played a crucial role in shaping his evolving political consciousness. The magazine's content would have provided him with a deeper understanding of progressive movements, as well as a sense of solidarity with like-minded individuals who were challenging the status quo. The act of reading New Masses symbolizes Maltz's active engagement with radical ideas and his willingness to explore alternative narratives beyond the confines of traditional academia.

The quote also alludes to Maltz's experience at Yale, a renowned Ivy League institution known for its conservative academic environment. The contrast between the conservative setting of Yale and Maltz's radicalization underscores the significance of his ideological transformation. It suggests that Maltz's exposure to dissenting viewpoints and critical analyses during his time at Yale may have contributed to his growing disillusionment with mainstream ideologies, prompting him to seek out alternative sources of knowledge and inspiration.

In conclusion, the quote attributed to Albert Maltz encapsulates a pivotal moment in the speaker's intellectual and political development. It serves as a testament to the transformative power of alternative media and the influence of radical thought in shaping individual perspectives. Maltz's journey from Yale to radicalization and his engagement with New Masses exemplify the impact of critical discourse and dissenting voices in challenging established norms and fostering a deeper understanding of social and political issues.