After a significant project or event titled "Don't Play Us Cheap," the speaker became heavily involved with two distinct areas: theater and Wall Street. This statement suggests a period of intense activity and career diversification following an important milestone.
The deeper meaning of this quote lies in the idea that after achieving something notable, such as completing a major film project or campaign like "Don't Play Us Cheap," the speaker found opportunities to explore new territories professionally. By engaging with theater, which is often associated with creative expression and the arts, and Wall Street, symbolizing the world of finance and business, the quote highlights the versatility and range of interests within the individual's career path. This juxtaposition also suggests a balance between artistic pursuits and commercial ventures, reflecting the speaker’s adaptability to various environments.
The quote is attributed to Melvin Van Peebles, an influential American filmmaker, actor, novelist, playwright, and composer who gained recognition for his groundbreaking work in independent cinema during the 1960s and 1970s. His film "Sweet Sweetback's Baadasssss Song" (1971) is particularly notable as it established a new wave of African American filmmaking, influencing subsequent generations of filmmakers with its unique narrative style and production approach.
