"Watching the scene played, I realized what I had not while writing it: that I had conjured up a portrait of my own deepest desires. I was in love with Hamlet—not as I had told myself, merely as devoted friend, nor faithful servant, but ardently, passionately. I would court him as a lover, marry him if I could, if such a thing were not unspeakable. Unthinkable, even—yet here it was, before me on the stage, the two men kissing and embracing, openly. I was surprised to find tears springing to my eyes. I had shown my love before the world, and all the world had fallen in love."