Meaning: The quote "It's hard to watch something you've done many years ago" by actor William Sanderson touches on the complexity of revisiting one's past work or creations. This sentiment is widely shared among artists, including actors, writers, musicians, and visual artists, who often find it challenging to revisit their earlier works due to the emotional and personal connections they have with those creations.

For actors like William Sanderson, who have a body of work spanning many years, the quote reflects the difficulty of revisiting performances from earlier in their careers. As an actor, each role undertaken is a unique and deeply personal experience, requiring a significant investment of time, energy, and emotions. When looking back at performances from many years ago, actors may find themselves confronted with memories of the circumstances in which they portrayed those characters, the challenges they faced, and the personal growth they have undergone since then.

Actors often evolve and refine their craft over time, and revisiting earlier performances can be a stark reminder of how much they have changed and grown as artists. This can be both a humbling and confronting experience, as it may highlight shortcomings or limitations that were present in their earlier work. Additionally, the passage of time can bring about a shift in perspective, causing actors to view their past performances through a different lens, which can be disconcerting.

Furthermore, the quote alludes to the emotional weight associated with revisiting past work. Actors invest a part of themselves into each character they portray, and the memories associated with those performances can be deeply personal. Watching oneself on screen or stage from many years ago can evoke a range of emotions, from nostalgia and pride to self-criticism and vulnerability. It can be a reminder of the passage of time and the transient nature of artistic endeavors.

In addition to the emotional and personal aspects, the quote also speaks to the artistic growth and evolution that actors undergo over the course of their careers. As actors gain experience, they develop new skills, insights, and perspectives that shape their approach to their craft. When revisiting earlier work, they may find themselves noticing aspects that they would approach differently now, reflecting their artistic maturation.

Moreover, the quote can be interpreted as a reflection of the universal human experience of grappling with the passage of time and the changes it brings. It encapsulates the broader theme of nostalgia and the bittersweet nature of reminiscing about the past. For actors, the quote captures the tension between honoring their past work and the desire to continue evolving and improving as artists.

In conclusion, William Sanderson's quote encapsulates the multifaceted nature of revisiting one's past work as an actor. It reflects the emotional, personal, and artistic challenges associated with confronting performances from earlier in one's career. The quote resonates with all artists who grapple with the complex emotions and reflections that arise when revisiting their earlier creations.