Meaning: This quote by Fred Melamed provides insight into the process of acting and the mindset of an actor. In the quote, Melamed expresses his belief that when he embodies a character, he is essentially infusing the character with elements of himself, but with certain alterations or "coats" that distinguish the character from his own persona. This approach to acting suggests a deep level of personal investment in the characters portrayed, as well as a willingness to delve into the nuances of behavior, speech, and perception.

Melamed's comparison of acting to pretending, particularly in the context of children playing, offers a poignant perspective on the nature of the craft. He emphasizes the idea that acting involves a form of make-believe, akin to the imaginative play of children, but with a crucial distinction – the commitment to make the pretense intensely real. This dual nature of acting – simultaneously playful and earnest – speaks to the complexity and depth of the actor's task in creating authentic and compelling performances.

Melamed's view of acting as "pretending as if it were really, really real" underscores the commitment and emotional investment required of actors. It suggests that, despite the artifice and fabrication inherent in acting, the goal is to make the portrayal so genuine and convincing that it resonates as truth for the audience. This pursuit of authenticity aligns with the fundamental purpose of storytelling and performance – to evoke genuine emotions, provoke thought, and foster empathy.

The concept of the actor as a vessel for the character, with layers of personal identity and interpretation, is a recurring theme in acting theory and practice. The idea that the character is a manifestation of the actor, albeit with distinct attributes and perspectives, underscores the transformative nature of acting. It requires the actor to tap into their own experiences, emotions, and understanding of the human condition, while also embodying the unique essence of the character they are portraying.

Melamed's notion of the "coat" that the actor wears to embody a character alludes to the multifaceted nature of performing. This metaphor suggests that the actor's own self is the foundation upon which the character is built, but the character also requires additional layers – mannerisms, speech patterns, and behavioral traits – that distinguish them as a separate entity. This approach highlights the intricacy of character development and the actor's ability to inhabit diverse roles while retaining elements of their own identity.

In conclusion, Fred Melamed's quote provides valuable insight into the psychological and creative dynamics of acting. His perspective on the actor's relationship to the character, the nature of pretending, and the pursuit of authenticity offers a compelling reflection on the art of performance. By embracing the idea of the character as an extension of the self, albeit adorned with distinctive "coats," Melamed encapsulates the profound emotional and intellectual engagement that actors bring to their craft.