Meaning: The quote "Something just happens when you read a part. You know, if you'd like to do it or if you don't believe it" by Sharon Gless, an actress known for her work in television and film, reflects the profound and often intuitive nature of the acting profession. Gless's words speak to the visceral and instinctual response that actors experience when they engage with a script or a role. In this quote, she captures the essence of the actor's journey in interpreting and embodying a character, highlighting the unique blend of personal connection and critical assessment that informs an actor's decision whether to take on a role.

For actors, the process of reading a script and evaluating a potential role is a deeply personal and subjective experience. As they immerse themselves in the words and emotions of a character, they often experience a powerful and immediate reaction that guides their decision-making. Gless's observation that "something just happens" encapsulates this process of emotional and psychological connection that can occur when an actor encounters a role that resonates with them on a profound level. This intuitive response can be pivotal in shaping an actor's decision to pursue a particular part, as it speaks to the fundamental alignment between the actor's own sensibilities and the character they are being asked to portray.

At the same time, Gless's quote also acknowledges the discerning eye of the actor, who must evaluate not only their personal affinity for a role but also the believability and authenticity of the character they are being asked to inhabit. In recognizing that actors can instinctively discern whether they "believe" in a part, Gless underscores the importance of critical judgment and artistic integrity in the actor's decision-making process. This aspect of the quote speaks to the actor's responsibility to approach each role with a thoughtful and discerning eye, ensuring that the characters they bring to life are authentic, compelling, and true to the story being told.

Furthermore, Gless's words shed light on the unpredictable and often inexplicable nature of the actor's craft. The "something" that she refers to encompasses the myriad emotions, insights, and intuitions that can arise when an actor engages with a script. It speaks to the enigmatic and deeply personal aspect of the creative process, in which an actor's response to a role is influenced by a complex interplay of emotions, experiences, and artistic instincts. This element of spontaneity and instinctual reaction is central to the mystery and allure of acting, highlighting the profound connection that actors forge with the material they encounter.

In conclusion, Sharon Gless's quote captures the essence of the actor's experience in evaluating and responding to a script or a role. It speaks to the deeply personal and instinctual nature of the actor's connection with a character, while also acknowledging the importance of critical judgment and artistic integrity in the decision-making process. Gless's words offer a compelling insight into the nuanced and intuitive journey that actors navigate as they seek out roles that resonate with them on a profound level.