Meaning: Elia Kazan, a renowned director and playwright, made this statement about his personal and professional life. The quote reflects the complexity of his identity and the challenges he faced as a prominent figure on the political left while also achieving great success and wealth. To fully understand the significance of this quote, it is necessary to delve into Kazan's background, his political beliefs, and the context of the time in which he made this statement.

Elia Kazan was born in 1909 in the Ottoman Empire (modern-day Turkey) and later immigrated to the United States with his family. He rose to prominence as a director in both theater and film, earning critical acclaim for his work on Broadway and in Hollywood. However, Kazan's career was not without controversy, particularly due to his involvement in the House Un-American Activities Committee (HUAC) hearings in the 1950s.

During the Red Scare, Kazan faced intense scrutiny for his political beliefs and associations. The left-leaning political views he held became a point of contention, especially as he became increasingly successful and well-known in the entertainment industry. The quote reflects the internal conflict Kazan experienced as he navigated his identity as a leftist and a public figure.

Kazan's success and wealth placed him in a unique position within the political and social landscape of the time. As a prominent figure on the left, he was expected to embody certain ideals and principles, yet his financial success and high-profile lifestyle seemed to contradict those expectations. This tension between his political beliefs and his personal prosperity is evident in the quote, as Kazan acknowledges the paradox of being both "very left" and "very successful."

The quote also speaks to the broader societal perceptions of wealth and success within the context of leftist politics. Kazan's presence in the gossip columns and the envy directed towards his financial achievements challenged the traditional narrative of leftist figures as struggling, anti-establishment advocates. His experiences shed light on the complexities of navigating political ideologies in a society that often seeks to categorize individuals based on their wealth and status.

Kazan's decision to cooperate with HUAC and provide the names of individuals with alleged communist ties further complicated his public image and legacy. While this action was widely condemned by many in the artistic and intellectual communities, it also highlighted the ethical and moral dilemmas faced by individuals during the fervor of the anti-communist movement.

In conclusion, Elia Kazan's quote encapsulates the nuanced intersection of politics, success, and public perception. It reflects the internal conflict he experienced as a leftist figure who achieved significant financial success and recognition. By examining the historical and personal context of the quote, we gain insight into the challenges faced by individuals navigating political beliefs and public scrutiny during a tumultuous period in American history.