11.29.24 - With wit and charm flowing through every page, I flew through this wonderful examination of the Bard's life from two different endpoints. The overflow of youth amidst a harsh early life is perfectly balanced against the tired resignation and acceptance of that same life's obstacles (most made by Shakespeare himself) provide a kinetic see-saw of confrontation. Luke Brett writes with a confidence and verve that made this a howlingly funny read. Staging this would be infinitely better.

Last night I had the great opportunity to read this piece aloud with the playwright (me: Great, he: Young) before a loud and appreciative audience; Brett's wit cut through the night and had the audience howling, but it is the argument itself, the one we are having today, between the older generations and the younger, that make this short work truly powerful and resonant. We should all have such grand conversations with ourselves.

Once again, Brett cuts right to the words in my soul. He writes what I follow by instinct better than I could say: "Most people have never been in a war...but if all the stories are about war, people will act like they’re living in one...in their peace, they will still say ugly, stupid things & hope for each other’s pain.” Brett's balance of heartfelt & humor is beautiful. Both Shakespeares have wisdom & folly & pain & love—so much love. It bleeds from every letter. Everyone must hear this play.