Meaning: The quote you provided is from the American poet George Oppen and it reflects his perspective on the ideological divide within the left-wing political and artistic movements that emerged in the 20th century. Oppen was associated with the New York Intellectuals and was a prominent figure in the Objectivist poetry movement. His work often engaged with political and social themes, and this quote offers insight into his views on the political and artistic climate of his time.

The quote references the "Old Left," a term used to describe the traditional Marxist and socialist movements that were prevalent in the early to mid-20th century. These movements were often characterized by a commitment to class struggle, collective ownership of the means of production, and a belief in the revolutionary potential of the working class. Within the artistic community, the Old Left was associated with a doctrine known as Socialist Realism, which emphasized the portrayal of the working class and the revolutionary struggle in a realistic and optimistic light.

Oppen's mention of "the theory of Socialist Realism, etc." suggests a certain disillusionment with the dogmatic adherence to this artistic and political ideology. Socialist Realism was closely associated with the Soviet Union and its cultural policies, which sought to harness art and literature in service of the state and the revolutionary cause. Oppen's use of the phrase "It seemed pointless to argue" indicates a sense of frustration or futility in engaging with individuals who adhered rigidly to this ideological framework.

The reference to "people who wrote for the New Masses" further contextualizes Oppen's position. The New Masses was a prominent Marxist publication in the United States that featured writing and artwork sympathetic to socialist and communist causes. While the magazine provided a platform for left-wing artists and intellectuals, Oppen's decision to "stay carefully away" from those associated with it suggests a deliberate distancing from the prevailing ideological currents of the time.

Oppen's stance reflects a broader trend within the intellectual and artistic communities of the mid-20th century, where many individuals grappled with the complexities of aligning their creative and political commitments. The rise of totalitarian regimes in Europe, the Spanish Civil War, and the onset of the Cold War all contributed to a fracturing of leftist solidarity and a reevaluation of political and artistic allegiances.

In the context of Oppen's own life, this quote can be seen as emblematic of his personal and artistic journey. Oppen himself was a complex and enigmatic figure who, after an initial period of involvement in leftist politics, withdrew from active engagement with political movements and focused on his poetry. His decision to distance himself from the doctrinaire approaches of the Old Left and the New Masses may have been influenced by a desire to maintain the integrity and autonomy of his artistic vision.

In conclusion, George Oppen's quote encapsulates the tensions and complexities inherent in the intersection of politics and art during the 20th century. His reflections on the Old Left, Socialist Realism, and the New Masses offer valuable insights into the challenges faced by artists and intellectuals navigating the ideological currents of their time. Oppen's own trajectory as a poet and thinker underscores the enduring relevance of these issues and the ongoing pursuit of artistic and political authenticity.