[Henry James'] essay's closing lines can either be read…
![“[Henry James'] essay's closing lines can either be read neutrally or as a more purposeful wish that this mystery [of Shakespeare's authorship] will one day be resolved by the 'criticism of the future': 'The figured tapestry, the long arras that hides him, is always there ... May it not then be but…” quote by James Shapiro](https://sms4smile.com/q/img-quotes/087/james-shapiro-62910_authorship_henry-james-essay-s-closing-lines-can-ei_2514746.jpg)
““[Henry James'] essay's closing lines can either be read neutrally or as a more purposeful wish that this mystery [of Shakespeare's authorship] will one day be resolved by the 'criticism of the future': 'The figured tapestry, the long arras that hides him, is always there ... May it not then be but a question, for the fullness of time, of the finer weapon, the sharper point, the stronger arm, the more extended lunge?' Is Shakespeare hinting here that one day critics will hit upon another, more suitable candidate, identify the individual in whom the man and artist converge and are 'one'? If so, his choice of metaphor - recalling Hamlet's lunge at the arras in the closet scene - is fortunate. Could James have forgotten that the sharp point of Hamlet's weapon finds the wrong man?””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The passage suggests that future criticism may finally solve Shakespeare's authorship mystery, using a metaphor of a tapestry and a weapon to imply a decisive breakthrough.
In simple terms: Future critics might resolve the Shakespeare authorship question.
Key Takeaway
Consider how new perspectives can unravel long‑standing debates.
Themes
literature
authorship
criticism
metaphor
Mood
thoughtful
inquisitive
Type
analytical
scholarly
When to use this quote
- academic research
- literary criticism
- historical investigation
Key Concepts
Shakespearean scholarship
historical mystery
interpretive analysis
Questions to Reflect On
- What evidence would be needed to settle the authorship debate?
- How do metaphors shape our understanding of literary mysteries?
A Different Perspective
Resolution may remain elusive despite new theories.