Meaning: The quote "After you play a part, you think of it as your own." by Gena Rowlands, an accomplished actress, encapsulates the deep emotional and psychological connection that actors often form with the characters they portray. Gena Rowlands is known for her powerful performances in a range of films, and her insight into the immersive nature of acting is reflected in this quote.

Actors often invest significant time and effort in understanding and embodying the characters they are tasked with portraying. This process involves delving into the character's background, motivations, and emotions in order to bring them to life on screen or stage. As a result, actors can develop a personal attachment to the characters they play, blurring the lines between their own identities and those of the characters they inhabit.

When an actor fully immerses themselves in a role, they experience a profound sense of empathy and connection with the character's experiences, struggles, and triumphs. This deep level of investment allows them to authentically convey the character's emotions and inner world to the audience, creating a compelling and relatable performance.

Furthermore, the quote also speaks to the transformative nature of acting. As actors step into the shoes of their characters, they undergo a metamorphosis, temporarily adopting the perspectives, mannerisms, and thought patterns of the characters they portray. This process can be emotionally and psychologically intense, leading to a sense of ownership and personal identification with the role.

It is not uncommon for actors to carry the emotional residue of their characters with them even after the cameras stop rolling or the curtain falls. The experiences of the character can linger in the actor's mind, impacting their own emotions and perceptions. This blurring of boundaries between the self and the character can lead to a deep, lasting impression that shapes the actor's own understanding of themselves and the world around them.

In addition, Gena Rowlands' quote underscores the enduring impact of acting on the actor's psyche. Even after the performance is over, the character's essence may continue to resonate within the actor, influencing their future roles and artistic endeavors. This ongoing connection to past characters can enrich an actor's repertoire, infusing their subsequent performances with depth and authenticity.

Ultimately, Gena Rowlands' quote illuminates the profound and multi-faceted nature of the actor-character relationship. It speaks to the emotional investment, transformative power, and lasting influence of acting on the actor's perception of self and art. Through her words, Rowlands provides a glimpse into the intricate and deeply personal journey that actors embark upon as they breathe life into the characters they play.