Meaning: This quote by Terry Gilliam, the renowned director, reflects a sentiment that is rooted in the cultural and social dynamics of the 1960s and 1970s. During this time, there was a significant shift in societal norms and values, particularly in relation to personal expression and individuality. Gilliam's frustration with America can be seen as a reaction to the conservative social and cultural attitudes that were prevalent in the United States during this era.

The 1960s and 1970s were marked by a wave of countercultural movements that sought to challenge traditional norms and values. One of the most visible aspects of this counterculture was the rejection of conventional standards of appearance, including long hair on men, which was often associated with rebellion and non-conformity. This act of growing one's hair longer became a symbol of resistance against the establishment and a statement of individuality.

In the context of the quote, Gilliam's frustration with America can be understood as a reaction to the resistance he faced in expressing himself and his individuality. The act of growing one's hair longer was not just a simple physical change, but a symbolic assertion of personal freedom and a rejection of societal expectations. However, the resistance and judgment he faced in America may have contrasted with the more accepting and progressive attitudes in other parts of the world during that time.

Gilliam's frustration may also be rooted in the broader social and political climate of the era. The 1960s and 1970s were characterized by significant social and political upheaval, including the civil rights movement, anti-war protests, and the rise of feminism. These movements challenged existing power structures and sought to redefine social norms, leading to a clash between traditional values and the emerging counterculture.

As a director known for his imaginative and unconventional approach to filmmaking, Gilliam may have felt stifled by the conservative attitudes that were prevalent in America at the time. His frustration with the limitations placed on personal expression and creativity may have influenced his work and his decision to explore themes of non-conformity and the struggle against oppressive systems in his films.

In conclusion, Terry Gilliam's quote reflects a broader dissatisfaction with the societal norms and cultural attitudes that prevailed in America during the 1960s and 1970s. The act of growing one's hair longer symbolized a rejection of traditional values and a desire for personal freedom and individuality. Gilliam's frustration can be seen as a reflection of the clash between the emerging counterculture and the conservative establishment, and it may have influenced his artistic endeavors and thematic explorations in his work as a director.