I apologize for being obvious, but every time I watch the curtain come down on even a halfway decent production of a Shakespeare play I feel a little sorrowful that I'll never know the man, or any man of such warm intelligence.

In this quote, Ian McEwan expresses a sense of sorrow and nostalgia as he reflects on the genius of William Shakespeare and his work. McEwan acknowledges that his feelings may seem obvious, but every time he witnesses a production of a Shakespeare play, he is reminded of the intelligence and depth of the playwright, which he finds unmatched. The idea that he will never personally know Shakespeare or someone with such warm intelligence evokes a feeling of loss, not just for the artist, but for the richness of the human experience that Shakespeare's work encapsulates.

McEwan’s mention of the "curtain coming down" on a performance symbolizes the end of a theatrical experience, a moment when the illusion of the play fades, and the audience is reminded of the distance between the world of the play and the world we live in. He feels a longing for a time when such a remarkable mind could directly influence society and culture. Shakespeare, to McEwan, represents the epitome of creative genius, someone whose intellect and humanity were expressed through timeless works that still resonate today.

The origin of this quote lies in McEwan's own appreciation for Shakespeare and the influence of his works on literature, theater, and beyond. As a novelist and writer known for his intricate explorations of human emotion and intellect, McEwan finds himself moved by the enduring power of Shakespeare's writing, which continues to shape art and culture long after the playwright’s death. His admiration for Shakespeare’s intelligence and the emotional depth of his works fuels this sense of loss at never being able to personally engage with the man behind the masterpieces.

Ultimately, McEwan’s words highlight the deep impact that Shakespeare's works have on him, while also acknowledging the inaccessibility of such a great mind. The quote speaks to the universal human desire to connect with the brilliance of past figures, even as we recognize that their true essence will always remain out of reach.