Meaning: This quote by Gene Barry, a renowned American actor, delves into the process of interpreting and embodying a role as an actor. It sheds light on the relationship between the written word, the actor's interpretation, and the resulting portrayal of a character. Barry's insight offers a glimpse into the intricate and multi-layered process of bringing a character to life on stage or screen.

The first part of the quote, "The attitude of the actor is his interpretation of what he reads," emphasizes the pivotal role of an actor's interpretation in shaping their portrayal of a character. It underscores the fact that an actor's attitude, demeanor, and overall approach to a role are deeply influenced by their understanding and interpretation of the written material. This interpretation serves as the foundation upon which the actor builds their performance, infusing it with their own unique perspective and understanding of the character.

Barry's statement, "The written word is what creates the role in the actor's mind," highlights the significance of the script or written material in shaping the actor's conception of the character they are tasked with portraying. The words on the page serve as the blueprint from which the actor constructs the character's thoughts, emotions, and motivations. The written word not only provides the dialogue and actions for the character but also offers insights into the character's inner world, allowing the actor to delve into the complexities of the role.

The quote concludes with Barry's reflection on his own experience, "and I guess in reading the things that were given to me, I reacted as you guys saw me, you know." Here, the actor acknowledges the impact of the material he was given and how his reaction to it ultimately translated into his performance as witnessed by the audience. This candid admission underscores the organic and personal nature of the actor's response to the written material, revealing how the actor's own interpretation and emotional engagement contribute to the authenticity of their portrayal.

In essence, Gene Barry's quote encapsulates the intricate interplay between the written word, the actor's interpretation, and the resulting on-stage or on-screen portrayal. It underscores the actor's role as a conduit through which the written material is transformed into a living, breathing character, infused with the actor's own insights, emotions, and personal interpretation.

As an actor, Gene Barry's perspective on the relationship between the written word and the actor's portrayal offers valuable insight into the creative process of bringing characters to life. It highlights the importance of a deep and thoughtful engagement with the script, as well as the actor's unique perspective and interpretation, in shaping a compelling and authentic performance.

Overall, Gene Barry's quote serves as a reminder of the profound influence of the written word on the actor's creative process, while also acknowledging the actor's individual interpretation and emotional response as integral components in the realization of a character.