" It was the early 1970s and I was recently divorced. I had three kids and was totally broke. I managed to find work back east on the straw-hat circuit – summer stock – but couldn’t afford hotels, so I lived out of the back of my truck, under a hard shell. "
- William Shatner

In the early 1970s, William Shatner found himself navigating a challenging period marked by personal upheaval and financial struggle. He had recently gone through a divorce with three young children to support and was without much income. Despite these difficulties, he managed to find work performing in summer theater productions known as "summer stock" along the East Coast of the United States. However, his limited resources meant that he could not afford hotels for accommodation, leading him to live out of his truck parked outside the theaters.

This quote speaks volumes about resilience and the lengths one must go to in order to pursue a passion or career despite significant obstacles. Shatner's willingness to endure hardships such as living in challenging conditions shows an unwavering commitment to his craft during a difficult time in his life. The statement also highlights the stark contrast between personal adversity and professional perseverance, illustrating how artists often push through tough circumstances to keep their dreams alive. It encapsulates the reality that success is not always immediate or easy; it can require immense sacrifice and determination.

William Shatner, the author of this quote, is a renowned Canadian actor, director, and writer best known for his role as Captain James T. Kirk in "Star Trek." Over the years, he has established himself as a multifaceted artist with a rich history in television, film, literature, and even comedy. Beyond being an icon in science fiction, Shatner's career spans multiple decades and various mediums, demonstrating his enduring influence on popular culture and entertainment.