In simple terms, the speaker is describing their perception of a person named Nathanael West as someone who likely fits into a stereotypical category of intellectual and possibly introverted individuals from the East Coast. The speaker suggests that upon moving to Los Angeles, this individual encountered difficulties in social settings, particularly because he was not as appealing to young actresses as producers or rugged cowboys might have been.
Beyond its surface meaning, this quote delves into deeper themes such as the clash between different cultural and social backgrounds. It highlights how individuals who are used to a certain lifestyle or environment may find it challenging to adapt when they move to a place with very different norms and expectations. The speaker’s description also touches on the contrast between intellectual pursuits and more glamorous, outwardly attractive personas that are often celebrated in Hollywood. This quote underscores the societal preference for certain types of appearances and personalities over others, especially in environments where physical appeal is highly valued.
Eve Babitz was an American writer known for her essays and novels that captured the cultural landscape of Los Angeles during the mid-20th century. Her work often blended fiction with autobiography, offering a candid look at the city’s bohemian culture and its contrasts with mainstream society. Through her writing style, Babitz offered insightful critiques of social norms and personal identity within the context of a rapidly changing urban environment.
