" I was 23 when I wrote ‘Neighbors,’ and I definitely look back at it now and cringe a little bit. I was trying to understand what drama was. "
- Branden Jacobs-Jenkins

When Branden Jacobs-Jenkins speaks about his work "Neighbors," he reflects on a time when he was younger and perhaps less experienced as a writer. He admits to having some reservations about the piece now that he has matured, suggesting that there might be elements of it that don't resonate with him today.

The quote delves into themes of artistic growth and self-reflection. It highlights the notion that artists often look back on their early works with a critical eye as they gain more experience and perspective over time. Jacobs-Jenkins' statement suggests an awareness of his own development, acknowledging both the efforts he made to explore and understand dramatic writing when he was younger and recognizing that those early attempts might not hold up to the standards and insights he now possesses.

Branden Jacobs-Jenkins is a contemporary playwright known for critically engaging with American theater traditions. His work often addresses issues related to race, history, and cultural identity in the United States. With a body of writing that spans multiple plays, his contributions have been recognized both nationally and internationally, earning him acclaim as one of the leading voices in modern drama.