Shakespeare's Tide: From Humble Playwright to Eternal Voice

The 400-year secret to turning creative hunches into immortal work — and why most writers, artists, and entrepreneurs still miss their moment.

This piece departs from my usual documentary portraits of living creators as I prepare for my next project. Shakespeare's tide metaphor resonates deeply during this creative reset of my own. Consider this exploration both an analysis of history's greatest creator and a personal compass guiding my evolving approach to recognising opportunity.

"The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away." — William Shakespeare

William Shakespeare, born in 1564—Stratford-upon-Avon, England. Little did he know the future awaiting. Growing up in a middle-class family, son of a glove-maker, he saw no other fate than following his father's trade just like most sons of his time.

His environment however was about to change. Young William moves to London, likely in his twenties. A new home that poses cultural change, status barriers, and ultimately a testing ground for years to come. In the theatre world misunderstood, he would spend his early days as an outsider, watching plays and performers. His interest in London was uncertain. That is, until he discovered the local acting companies.

"There is a tide in the affairs of men, which taken at the flood leads on to fortune." — William Shakespeare

An encounter that meant a radical shift for William. Looking backwards, I believe we can connect the dots and realise their significance overtime.

At this point he made connections, performing with touring companies and writing scripts. One of them a theatre owner, Shakespeare got obsessed by crafting lines that would bring audiences to tears and laughter. During these days, bare talent, a quill and parchment would do the trick. Until he noticed how bland most plays of the day were, and wanted more.