Meaning: This quote is from Abraham Polonsky, an American film director, screenwriter, and novelist who was known for his work during the 1940s and 1950s. The quote reflects the frustration and disillusionment of a father who had hoped to provide a better life for his son but feels that circumstances beyond his control have limited his son's opportunities.

In the quote, the speaker expresses regret and disappointment about the environment in which their child is growing up. The reference to "Twenty years ago" suggests a retrospective viewpoint, indicating that the speaker had aspirations for their child's future that have not been realized. The desire to move to a "nice place" reflects a longing for a more favorable and nurturing environment, one that would enable their child, Charley, to "grow up a nice boy" and "learn a profession."

The contrast between the initial aspiration for a better life and the reality of living in what the speaker describes as a "jungle" is stark. The term "jungle" conveys a sense of chaos, danger, and lawlessness, suggesting that the environment in which they live is hostile and unforgiving. This characterization emphasizes the speaker's belief that their current circumstances are detrimental to their child's development and prospects for the future.

The poignant statement, "so he can only be a wild animal," underscores the speaker's sense of powerlessness and resignation. The comparison of their child to a "wild animal" implies a loss of the civilized and cultivated upbringing that the parent had hoped to provide. It suggests a lack of opportunity for education, socialization, and personal growth, leaving the child to fend for themselves in a harsh and unforgiving environment.

The rhetorical question, "D'you think I picked the East Side like Columbus picked America?" serves as a rhetorical device to challenge the listener's assumptions and highlight the speaker's sense of injustice. The comparison to Columbus's discovery of America conveys a sense of happenstance and lack of deliberate choice. The speaker implies that their circumstances were not the result of a conscious decision but rather a consequence of forces beyond their control.

Abraham Polonsky's quote captures the frustration and disillusionment of many individuals who find themselves trapped in socio-economic circumstances that limit their opportunities and prospects for a better life. The quote reflects the enduring themes of social inequality, the impact of environment on individual potential, and the struggle for upward mobility.

In conclusion, Abraham Polonsky's quote encapsulates the profound disappointment and resignation of a parent who had hoped for a better future for their child but feels that their aspirations have been thwarted by the harsh realities of their environment. The quote resonates with the enduring themes of social inequality, the impact of environment on individual potential, and the struggle for upward mobility. It serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by many individuals and families in their pursuit of a better life for themselves and their children.