"What is life but a walking shadow, a poor player, that struts and frets his hour upon the stage, and then is heard no more."
This quote by William Shakespeare (mistakenly attributed to William Kircher), from Macbeth, suggests that life is transient, ephemeral, and fleeting, much like a shadow on a stage. It implies that we are merely actors in a grand production, full of strife and pomp for a brief moment, only to disappear from the spotlight when our allotted time has passed. Essentially, it's a reminder that life is temporary, and we should make the most of every moment while we can.
"To be, or not to be: that is the question — Whether 'tis nobler in the mind to suffer The slings and arrows of outrageous fortune, Or to take arms against a sea of troubles And by opposing end them? To die: to sleep; No more; and by a sleep to say we end The heartache and the thousand natural shocks That flesh is heir to, 'tis a consummation Devoutly to be wish'd. To die, to sleep; To sleep: perchance to dream — ay, there's the rub; For in that sleep of death what dreams may come When we have shuffled off this mortal coil, Must give us pause."
This quote by William Shakespeare, as interpreted by William Kircher, expresses a deep contemplation on life, death, suffering, and the unknown. The character Hamlet is pondering whether it's nobler to endure hardships, or to fight against them, knowing that death may bring an end to pain but also introduces the uncertainty of dreams after death. In essence, this quote reflects the human struggle between accepting life as it comes and fighting for change, while acknowledging both the potential suffering and unknown possibilities in either choice.
"Neither a borrower nor a lender be; For loan oft loses both itself and friend, And borrowing dulls the edge of husbandry."
This quote by William Shakespeare, misattributed to William Kircher, is taken from Polonius' advice in Hamlet. The meaning can be interpreted as caution against lending or borrowing money. The phrase "neither a borrower nor a lender be" suggests an ideal state of financial independence, implying that debt or lending may strain relationships (as the loan can lead to disagreements over repayment) and detract from one's focus on self-sufficiency ("the edge of husbandry"). Essentially, the quote encourages prudence in managing finances to maintain personal and social harmony.
"This above all: to thine own self be true."
This quote, penned by William Shakespeare through the character Polonius in his play "Hamlet," advocates for authenticity and integrity. The essence lies in the importance of being genuine and honest with oneself, embracing one's true nature rather than adhering to societal expectations or false personas. It encourages personal growth, self-awareness, and consistency between a person's beliefs, values, and actions. Overall, it is about living an authentic life that aligns with one's inner truth.
"Breviate me this long-winded tale; I am too old to hear a prolonged discourse."
This quote expresses the speaker's desire for a brief, succinct account rather than a lengthy oration. Given his advanced age, he is asking for the essential information without the drawn-out details, as his time and energy might be limited. The sentiment suggests respect for the listener's needs and preferences.
It's great to work with people who are jobbing actors at different stages of their career, and learning from them, and getting over being star-struck by somebody like Ian McKellen because he has such a long prestigious history in the business, but then seeing how he works on the camera; you never stop learning.
- William Kircher
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