We know what we are, but know not what we may be. — William Shakespeare | Printable Wall Art

“We know what we are, but know not what we may be.”

Words by William Shakespeare (1564-1616) — English playwright and poet.

About this quote

This line speaks to human potential and the uncertainty of the future. While we understand our present identity, circumstances, and limitations, our future remains unwritten. It reminds us that people are capable of surprising growth, unexpected changes, and unforeseen choices. We should not judge ourselves or others purely by who we are today, as life constantly reshapes us.

Spoken by Ophelia in Act IV, Scene V of William Shakespeare's tragedy Hamlet, written around 1600. Her wisdom reflects her unravelling state of mind during a moment of tragic madness.

People often hang this print in a home office or study as a daily reminder of personal growth.

What you get

An instant digital download. Choose your design and size at checkout — 19 typographic designs and 8 print sizes are available for this quote.

• Print-ready PDF with fully embedded vector type — sharp at any scale
• Exact trim size, no cropping required
• Print at home, at a local print shop, or upload to an online printer
• Instant download — no physical item is shipped

Sizes available

5" x 7" · 8" x 10" · 11" x 14" · 12" x 16" · 16" x 20" · 18" x 24" · 24" x 36" · A4 (21 x 29.7 cm)

Designs available

Atelier Serif · Quiet Garamond · Studio Left · Gallery Rule · Midnight Serif · Editorial Left Serif · Modern Sans Calm · Letterpress Caps · Poster Condensed · Script Whisper · Manuscript Italic · Asymmetric Left · Minimal Unsigned · Charcoal Sans · Gallery Frame · Soft Serif Right · Statement Serif · Night Script · Tracked Caps Unsigned

Digital product. Colours may vary slightly between screens and printers. Frames and props are not included.