Shakespearean Quotes
When I was studying Shakespeare as a theatre major, I had a professor who would talk about “the purple passages.” These are the really famous lines and speeches that English speakers seem to be born with a at least a faint awareness of; that sixth sense that says “you have heard this before.” (It also applies to certain fairy tales and most Beatle’s lyrics.)
“To be or not to be,” “the quality of mercy is not strained,” “what’s in a name?” “some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them” are a few examples that come to mind.
I saw this man in a bar and asked if I could take a photo, and he kindly agreed. He may not look kind, but he really was.
It’s been a while since college but I’m surprised I don’t remember this quote. Must be more of a “puce passage.”
Rachel Lewis
Welcome! I’m a middle-aged former Mormon (aka the “other FOMO”), essayist, and playwright living in Salt Lake City. I work in pharmaceuticals professionally and write recreationally—though I’m open to reversing that someday. On Life and Lemons is where I share humorous snippets about writing, addiction, recovery, relationships, mental health, and whatever else life tosses in the blender. If you enjoy dark humor with a twist of lemon-tart snark—or just need proof that your own life isn’t the only one held together by twist ties and good intentions—you’re in the right place. You can follow me and get updates on the release of my new essay collection at instagram.com/pieces_of_string/. 🍋 Subscribe and let’s overthink things together.