"I first got involved in theater in 1968, at the height of a social tumult. I was a poet"

In this quote, August Wilson reflects on his early participation in theater throughout a time of excellent social turmoil in 1968. He explains it as a time of "social tumult," likely describing the civil liberties movement and other political and cultural movements that were taking place at the time. Regardless of this disorderly environment, Wilson discovered solace and function on the planet of theater. He also mentions that he was a poet, recommending that his love for language and storytelling might have been what drew him to the phase. This quote highlights the intersection of art and advocacy, and how Wilson's personal experiences and talents formed his profession as a popular playwright.