Richard Burton vs Robert Kennedy Shakespeare’s sonnets

Richard Burton once got into a contest with Robert F. Kennedy, whom he greatly admired, in which they tried to outdo the other by quoting William Shakespeare’s sonnets. Both were word-perfect, although Burton won the contest by quoting one of the sonnets backwards. The story you mentioned about Richard Burton and Robert F. Kennedy engaging in a contest to quote William Shakespeare’s sonnets is indeed a popular anecdote. Both men were known for their admiration of Shakespeare and their ability to recite his works from memory. It’s often mentioned that Burton won the contest by reciting one of the sonnets backward, which would certainly have been a unique and impressive feat. This story reflects the erudition and talent of both individuals in the realm of literature and the arts. Richard Burton was a highly acclaimed actor known for his Shakespearean performances, while Robert F. Kennedy was a well-read and cultured individual who appreciated the arts and literature. While the specific
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