Meaning: The quote "After I left LA... it was like waking up. And so I moved back east and stopped auditioning" by Casey Affleck, an actor known for his roles in films such as "Manchester by the Sea" and "Gone Baby Gone," reflects a significant decision in his career and personal life. This quote sheds light on the transformative experience of leaving Los Angeles, a major hub for the entertainment industry, and his decision to shift his focus away from auditioning for roles.

Casey Affleck's decision to leave LA and stop auditioning signifies a pivotal moment in his life and career. Los Angeles is widely regarded as the epicenter of the entertainment industry, particularly for aspiring actors looking to break into the film and television industry. For many actors, the pursuit of auditions and roles in LA can become all-consuming, often leading to a relentless and competitive lifestyle. Affleck's decision to leave this environment and cease auditioning suggests a desire for a change in priorities and a reevaluation of his career path.

The phrase "it was like waking up" implies a sense of clarity and renewed perspective that came with leaving behind the LA audition circuit. This awakening could signify a realization of the toll that constant auditioning and the LA lifestyle had taken on Affleck's well-being. It may also indicate a shift in focus towards more meaningful and fulfilling endeavors outside of the traditional Hollywood auditioning process.

Moving back east after departing from LA represents a physical and symbolic relocation for Affleck. The decision to return to the eastern part of the United States could have been driven by a desire for a different pace of life, a return to familiar surroundings, or a reconnection with personal and professional roots. This move may have provided Affleck with the opportunity to reassess his career goals and redefine success on his own terms, outside of the pressures and expectations often associated with the LA entertainment scene.

By stating that he "stopped auditioning," Casey Affleck's quote also highlights a deliberate choice to step away from the traditional auditioning process. This decision may have been influenced by a desire to reclaim autonomy and creative control over his career. It could also signify a shift towards alternative avenues of pursuing acting opportunities, such as seeking out more selective or personally fulfilling projects, or exploring opportunities in independent and non-traditional film and theater spaces.

Overall, Casey Affleck's quote encapsulates a significant turning point in his career and personal journey. It speaks to the transformative power of making bold decisions to prioritize personal well-being and autonomy in the face of industry pressures. Affleck's experience serves as a reminder of the importance of self-reflection, resilience, and the pursuit of fulfillment beyond the confines of conventional expectations within the entertainment industry.