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Understanding Shakespeare’s Genius
William Shakespeare, often hailed as the greatest playwright in history, produced an extraordinary body of work that continues to captivate audiences centuries after his death. His approach to writing offers valuable insights not just into his own genius, but also into alternative paths to mastery that can be particularly relevant for individuals with ADHD, those who rely heavily on System 1 thinking, or anyone whose mind naturally gravitates towards big-picture creativity rather than detail-oriented perfectionism.
The Power of Volume and Imperfection
Shakespeare’s approach to writing was driven by an intense creative energy that prioritized the generation of ideas over the refinement of details. His focus was not on perfecting each line but on capturing the essence of human experience and emotion in a way that resonated deeply with audiences. For Shakespeare, the act of creation was about moving forward, exploring new ideas, and constantly pushing the boundaries of storytelling.
In the world of creative genius, volume often leads to mastery, but not always through the linear learning process we typically associate with skill development. For individuals with ADHD or those who naturally engage in System 1 thinking (fast, intuitive, and emotional), Shakespeare’s method of continuous production without obsessive revision can be a more…
