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“The Bard Mark Two – it’s staggering!”
– BBC
😳 NEARLY 20x MORE SONNETS THAN SHAKESPEARE! 😳
🤩 MORE VERSE THAN HOMER’S ILIAD & ODYSSEY COMBINED!! 🤩
…AND HE’S STILL GOING…!!! 🦸🏻♂️💪
“Masters of the verse – Smith & Shakespeare”
– London Planner
EXAMPLE:
One of Rogue Shakespeare’s latest sonnets…
July 12, 2025
On this day, Ryan was out flyering at the ‘North End Road Summer Fest’ for the London production (July 22-26) of his 7th verse play, Pretty, Witty Nell, (tickets here) with his new protege, Clarissa Adele – training her up in London for the marketing/performing madness of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe run of the same show, 12-17 August (tickets here).
Later that evening, Ryan and Clarissa both went by special invitation to see Ryan’s friend – Broadway singing megastar, Melissa Errico, in concert at the large 953 seat Cadogan Hall in Sloane Square. After the show, Ryan and Clarissa headed to Melissa’s uber-fancy after-party, where Melissa’s tennis superstar husband, Patrick McEnroe, and various other notables from the world of sports and entertainment were in attendance.
It was a wonderful and deeply moving performance by Melissa, and a highly positive day all-round. Ryan summed it all up at the end of the day in his sonnet number 3,012.
Melissa Errico and Clarissa Adele
Clarissa and Melissa meet for the first time
Rogue Shakespeare (Smith) and Melissa Errico
THE ULTIMATE SONNETEER
Rogue Shakespeare's Sonnets
3,014 x 14 lines =
lines of verse!
(updated - July 14, 2025)
Having now written over 3,000 Shakespearean Sonnets, (no, that's not a typo, he's written over three-thousand sonnets), Ryan J-W Smith (aka 'Rogue Shakespeare®') easily holds the world-record, by an unfathomable margin, for authoring more Shakespearean Sonnets than any other person in history.
“Smith… the most prolific – and crucially, experienced – verse-drama writer in the UK”
- Fringe Review
“Candid, spiritual, philosophical and sometimes boldly political... a landmark in literature”
- Watkins Magazine
To put Smith's poetic and literary achievement into context:
William Shakespeare wrote (a mere) 154 sonnets, which calculates to 2,156 lines of verse.
Homer's epic poem, the Odyssey, contains 12,109 lines;
Homer's other epic poem, the Iliad, contains 15,693 lines.
Smith's trilogy, 'Rogue Shakespeare's Sonnets - parts I, II & III' (also collectively known in one epic book as 'Rogue Shakespeare's Bible') contains 2,702 of Smith's personal/philosophical/spiritual/political sonnets - that's exactly 37,828 lines of rhyming iambic verse - more than the Odyssey, the Iliad and all of Shakespeare's sonnets combined.
Ryan J-W Smith aka 'Rogue Shakespeare'
- Shakespeare's Sonnets - 2,156 lines
- Homer's the Odyssey - 12,109 lines
- Homer's the Iliad - 15,693 lines
- Rogue Shakespeare's Bible (Truth in Verse - parts I, II & III) - 37,828 lines
That's amazing... what the hell is a 'sonnet'?!
A Shakespearean or 'English' sonnet is 14 lines long, written in iambic pentameter - 5 heartbeats (2 beats - first soft, second strong) per line - with a rhyming structure of ABAB CDCD EFEF GG. Iambic is considered the most powerful meter for verse, as it's very close to the natural way we think and speak in English.
Below you can hear one of Smith's first ever sonnets, 'SONNET ZERO', originally written and recorded live on-air in a BBC radio studio in June, 2006 - now soon to be published in his 2025 epic, 'Rogue Shakespeare's Bible - Truth in Verse'. (see below).
Sonnet Zero
500 Shakespearean Sonnets (2012)
The first 500. An honest, unfiltered, spiritual diary in verse, Smith's first 500 sonnets were published in 2012 and received nothing but glowing reviews from critics and readers alike. These sonnets now make up chapter one (of six) in Smith's epic three-part book of nearly 2,700 sonnets, 'Rogue Shakespeare's Bible'.
"Shakespeare's managed to write 154 - Smith has penned more than three times that number.
...splendidly contemporary...a tour de force"
"this collection shows a tremendous talent and deserves to sit alongside your Poes, Plaths, and T.S. Elliots"
"an honest process of learning, healing and repentance...
a collection of inspirational, honest and didactic poetry"
"Candid, spiritual, philosophical and sometimes boldly political... a landmark in literature"
"impressively well-constructed... often startlingly expressive and insightful...
a fascinating and richly detailed picture of the author"
"Masters of the verse - Smith pays homage to the Bard with the must-read collection of his own modern verse"
"Incredibly well written...a poetic achievement.
A great gift for any poetry lover in your life.
Stunning stuff."
"a diary in verse form from a man seeking to understand his own conflicted nature in this highly-praised new book of self-discovery from award-winning author, Ryan J-W Smith"
Amazon Reader Reviews:
★★★★★
These sonnets are truly brilliant as they express deep inspired psychological truths in well very crafted, rhymed and beautiful sonnets. The meanings are deep - but for anyone looking for the path to Liberation they contain many profound insights and clues. The best book of contemporary poetry I have come across since the Four Quartets.
★★★★★
Wonderful...
I started 500 Shakespearean Sonnets at Sonnet 1, and I am making my way, slowly and surely, one masterpiece, by one. Ryan J-W Smith noted in his introduction that if anyone were to do this it would be in a moment of madness. On the contrary, given the power of the prelude and what he shares around his purpose for writing, for me it was the only option. It would be, and is as expected, the best and most fulfilling way to share the author’s amazing journey of self-healing and discovery. Without question, each piece stands alone with intense authority and is a joy to read. Indeed, in every case the poems actually warrant more than one review. It is a rare opportunity, however to be exposed so explicitly to a fellow human’s fluctuating reflections, raw thoughts and observations. Ryan’s expression and representation is so beautifully real, connected and open, it is wonderfully easy to relate to as a reader. I have giggled to myself about how randomly yet aptly matters have been explained. The vision he has and how this is translated into verse is potent, inspiring and for the reader reassuring and very liberating.
500 Shakespearean Sonnets is an account of an amazing passage. For me it has brought much peace and to the author I am most grateful. May this be true for anyone else who chooses to open their minds and hearts to the beauty of loving themselves and what it is to be human. Enjoy 🙂
★★★★★
The diary of 500 Shakespearean Sonnets is in one word brilliant! Even those who think they would not be interested or fear they may not understand will be massively surprised. It’s written in a modern way which is easy to understand. I pretty much only studied Shakespeare at school so I am no expert but Smith beats Shakespeare for me!
★★★★★
Beautiful
This is a fascinating and beautiful read. Possibly because it was initially written for his own purposes and not intended for publication it is very personal, stark, honest, amusing at times and hauntingly lovely at others. His writing style is superb, a true wordsmith, it can be simple and raw or more complex and intricate depending on the subject and presumably his mood at the time of writing each sonnet. They are consistently well written and give a glimpse into the mind of the author and his musings for that day. Given the quality of the writing is arresting enough to capture your attention, it is also gratifying that the subject matter in itself is also well worth the read. His observations on matters of ego, self, humanity and the mind are at times stunning. I look forward to more from this talented and rare Man.
★★★★★
truly worth reading
Hi. Just bought the new book of Ryan J-W Smith “500 Shakespearean Sonnets”. And I would highly recommend it to anyone who is looking for some NON FAKE poetry, which is actually quite rare now…
I find this book quite inspirational starting from it’s introduction. The author is incredibly honest and sincere to his audience and not many of us would be able to talk about ourselves so open and critical. The same feeling you can get by reading the Sonnets. You can sense straightaway that these were not created for any commercial purposes – it is purely self expression “product”. And this is the reason why this book is so good. Each day/each sonnet is like a piece of author’s diary: different moods, thoughts and themes. From daily life episodes to the deep analysis of our existence…
By reading each sonnet you can discover something completely new or recognise yourself in it. And maybe start thinking a bit more… 😉
AVAILABLE NOW FOR PRE-ORDER!
AVAILABLE FOR PRE-ORDERS! Smith's new book of over 2,700 of his widely-praised personal/spiritual/political/prophetic sonnets spanning 17 years of his life from 2007 to 2024.
Chapter 1 of this book includes Smith's first 500 sonnets published in 2012.
Truth in Verse - Parts I, II & III
Nosce te ipsum - know thyself - the single, most vital, quest that we were sent to planet Earth to achieve.
For those who dare to read it all, Rogue Shakespeare's Bible becomes a fountain of truth, wisdom, inner peace and power. Smith's Buddhist-inspired path of self and world discovery opens up our hearts to the universal force of raw, unfiltered Love that exists in all of us. The more we read, the more we are empowered by his words - until, at last, we realise who he is; and, who we are. For spiritual seekers, activists & poetry lovers alike.
TAKE THE JOURNEY WITHIN TO KNOW WHO YOU ARE
FIND TRUTH, INNER PEACE & THE POWER OF LOVE
SUBMIT TO THE UNIVERSE & MASTER YOUR WORLD
Shattering all previous records by an unfathomable margin, the critically acclaimed, multiple award-winning, and internationally renowned poet and verse playwright, Ryan J-W Smith, presents an unrivalled demonstration of a poet's absolute mastery of his craft: Rogue Shakespeare's Bible contains over 2,700 of Smith's original sonnets, written as the spiritual verse diary of Smith's alter ego, 'Rogue Shakespeare', from 2007 through to 2024 - spanning life in England, Florida, Australia, New York, Los Angeles, Denmark, France and Spain. Like Samuel Pepys before him, Smith has written himself into history as the premier diarist of his time. But Smith's poetic masterpiece is so much more than 'just' a mind-blowing 17 year long secret diary written in strict rhyming iambic pentameter! Boldly political, highly personal, and provably prophetic, Smith challenges the current global order, as much as he strips his artistic soul naked to better himself, for others - for all of us.
Transcending careers into film and law, Smith extensively interviewed and learned from countless experts, whistleblowers, rebels and great thought-leaders of our times - from former spies to MPs, Members of Congress, US Senators and Presidential Candidates; as well as many out-spoken doctors, academics and prominent international lawyers. Reading Rogue Shakespeare's epic spiritual, intellectual and physical journey, it becomes clear that, beyond earthly wisdom, Smith also channels higher, meditative sources of direct universal knowledge and awareness, as the reader witnesses him predict, again and again, the dire future we all now find ourselves in. Ultimately, despite the hell of the 'brave new world' we are entering, Smith's promise of spiritual liberation manifests - as readers who follow Rogue's maverick path begin to master themselves.
buy paperbacks of Smith's critically-acclaimed sonnets and award-winning verse plays!
***ALWAYS AVAILABLE AT LOWER PRICES HERE THAN AMAZON OR WATERSTONES etc!***
TRUTH IN VERSE
Smith's critically-acclaimed ongoing spiritual diary in verse - is available either separately in Parts I, II or II...
Or combined in one very heavy 'bible' (1,388 pages) that contains Parts I, II and III.
Also available is Smith's book of 3 plays.
Plus the original book of Smith's first 500 sonnets, published in 2012 - now a collectors item.
Rogue Shakespeare’s Sonnets
T R U T H I N V E R S E
– Part I –
first edition (2025)
Chapters 1 & 2 - 'COURAGE' & 'HUMILITY'
SONNETS 1-1,000
(Nov 20, 2007 - Jan 2, 2014)
+ sonnet zero 'The Prologue'
530 pages, B-format
- RELEASED SOON -
***PRE-ORDER TODAY!***
SONNETS 1-1,000
(Nov 20, 2007 - Jan 2, 2014)
In part one of Smith's unparalleled spiritual journey in verse, Rogue Shakespeare takes us deep into his soul, seeking clarity, peace and redemption, as he starts to question the fundamentals of the ever-changing world around him. From Florida to Edinburgh, across Australia, to New York, Los Angeles, London and Denmark, Rogue's relationships, self-discovery, politics and his unwavering commitment to truth, lie naked before us.
Rogue Shakespeare’s Sonnets
T R U T H I N V E R S E
– Part II –
first edition (2025)
Chapters 3 & 4 - 'COMPASSION' & 'LOVE'
SONNETS 1,001-2,000
(Jan 3, 2014 - Nov 24, 2021)
530 pages, B-format
- RELEASED SOON -
***PRE-ORDER TODAY!***
SONNETS 1,001-2,000
(Jan 3, 2014 - Nov 24, 2021)
In part two of Smith's unique spiritual journey in verse, Rogue Shakespeare faces immense challenges in compassion and love: his father's death, the dark side of fame, law school, bio weapons, lockdowns, mid-pandemic migration, a new language, exotic lovers, and a global war he long predicted creeping ever closer. From Denmark, to England, Los Angeles, France and Spain, Rogue continues to bare his soul through epic poetry.
Rogue Shakespeare’s Sonnets
T R U T H I N V E R S E
– Part III –
first edition (2025)
Chapters 5 & 6 - 'DEATH/REBIRTH' & 'TRUTH'
SONNETS 2,001-2,700
(Nov 25, 2021 - Sept 10, 2024)
+ sonnet zero-one 'The Epilogue'
380 pages, B-format
- RELEASED SOON -
***PRE-ORDER TODAY!***
SONNETS 2,001-2,700
(Nov 25, 2021 - Sept 10, 2024)
In part three of Smith's epic spiritual journey in verse, Rogue Shakespeare faces the ultimate challenge: Death & Rebirth is not just a chapter title, but a visceral reality, as Rogue fights his way back from the brink of physical anihilation. Rising again, he finds new depths of courage to speak Love's truth to power like never before. Confident, at peace, and aware of his future, we witness a poetic and spiritual master manifesting his own destiny.
Rogue Shakespeare - 3 plays
third edition (2025)
a collection of 3 of Ryan J-W Smith’s award-winning & critically acclaimed verse plays:
Pretty, Witty Nell® – OFFIES award winner 2025
Love Labours Won – Hollywood Fringe International Award Winner 2015
Romeo & Juliet it Aint! – Hollywood Fringe International Award Nominee 2016
150 pages, B-format
- OUT NOW -
***ORDER TODAY!***
Rogue Shakespeare’s Bible
T R U T H I N V E R S E
– Parts I, II & III –
first edition (2025)
Chapters 1 thru 6 complete
SONNETS 1-2,700
(Nov 20, 2007 - Sept 10, 2024)
+ sonnets zero and zero-one
1,388 pages, B-format
- RELEASED SOON -
***PRE-ORDER TODAY!***
500 Shakespearean
Sonnets
first edition (2012)
1/500
SONNETS 1-500
(Nov 20, 2007 - Sept 18, 2011)
(now 'chapter 1' of Smith's 'Truth in Verse' collections)
COLLECTORS ITEM!
264 pages, B-format
- OUT NOW -
***ORDER TODAY!***