9 Lives of Mercutio

“A best friend brings out the best in you.” – Henry Ford

When Shakespeare wrote Romeo & Juliet, he gave Romeo a best friend, Mercutio, that was idealistically as loyal and devoted as they come. He also gave Romeo a pure rival, Tybalt, whose name echoes the name Tibert, from an old folk tale, Reynard & The Fox, which Shakespeare nods. The name means “prince of the cats.”

In one scene, Mercutio stands up for Romeo, challenging Tybalt to a duel to defend his friend’s honor. Mercutio taunts Tybalt, saying, “Good King of Cats, I want to take one of your nine lives. I’ll take one, and, depending on how you treat me after that, I might beat the other eight out of you too. Will you pull your sword out of its sheath? Hurry up, or I’ll smack you on the ears with my sword before you have yours drawn!”

But as Romeo tries to stop Mercutio, Tybalt fiendishly impales him with his sword, killing Mercutio in the classic romantic tragegy. 

I’ve always enjoyed that scene, as it epitomizes the way I envision true friendship, whether as to be – or not to be – the lead actor between the two.

As this blog evolves, I hope to capture more of this type of romantic tragedy, blended with my own unique comedic twist.

Thank you for visiting and I hope you are entertained.

Love & cheers!