I won't say he [Shakespeare] 'invented' us, because…
![“I won't say he [Shakespeare] 'invented' us, because journalists perpetually misunderstand me on that. I'll put it more simply: he contains us. Our ways of thinking and feeling-about ourselves, those we love, those we hate, those we realize are hopelessly 'other' to us-are more shaped by…” quote by Harold Bloom](https://sms4smile.com/q/img-quotes/c30/harold-bloom-3350_feelings_i-won-t-say-he-shakespeare-invented-us-b_2229453.jpg)
“I won't say he [Shakespeare] 'invented' us, because journalists perpetually misunderstand me on that. I'll put it more simply: he contains us. Our ways of thinking and feeling-about ourselves, those we love, those we hate, those we realize are hopelessly 'other' to us-are more shaped by Shakespeare than they are by the experience of our own lives.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Shakespeare profoundly shapes our self‑understanding and emotions, more than personal experience does.
In simple terms: Shakespeare influences how we see ourselves and others.
Key Takeaway
Recognize literature’s impact on your identity.
Themes
literature
identity
culture
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
critical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- personal reflection
- education
- creative writing
Key Concepts
Shakespearean influence
self‑perception
Questions to Reflect On
- How does Shakespeare affect your view of yourself?
- Can you separate personal experience from literary influence?
A Different Perspective
Literary analysis can overlook personal agency.