The Dark Lady: As well as many others. So do you have any future plays you're thinking about having performed soon?
William: Not at the moment, but I always write in my journal to keep my mind working. There is so much in this world to explore that I find intriguing. I don't understand how anyone couldn't be inspired by the crazy emotionally driven world we live in.
The Dark Lady: Speaking of love, I'm interested in talking about your infamous sonnets. Were they inspired from personal events in your life?
William: A lot of people ask me this, but I am unsure of why. Of course they are inspired by my life, I wrote them, but that doesn't necessarily mean they are about what has personally happened to me. You don't have to go through something physically yourself to have an understanding of what someone else may have gone through.
The Dark Lady: Very well said. What about your other works? Are they inspired by any personal events in your life or what you've observed?
William: Well, to be honest, Antony & Cleopatra was inspired by a certain "royal" encounter I've had. It may have been one of the more inspiring events that took place whilst I was writing.
The Dark Lady: Is there any chance you would be willing to enlighten us on who this "royal" was? You know the reader's will be dying to know.
William: I would love to tell if it weren't at the expense of my own head! (He laughs heartily)
The Dark Lady: Well thank you Mr. Shakespeare for the time you've given us. We here at The Dark Lady greatly appreciate it.
William: The pleasure is all mine.
7