Introduction
William Shakespeare, the famous playwright from Avon, composed a collection of ageless sonnets that enchant readers with melodious elegance, deep-seated themes, and intricate linguistic artistry. Two of my favorites are among the assigned sonnets: Sonnet 18 and Sonnet 130. These masterpieces resonate with me due to their distinct qualities and memorable lines.
Analysis of Memorable Lines and Their Appeal
Sonnet 18
Sonnet 18, often referred to as “Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day?” is a tribute to love and poetry’s everlasting influence in preserving a cherished person’s beauty. The opening line, “Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day?” is instantly striking. The sonnet describes how the special surpasses the transient beauty of summer, “Thou art more lovely and more temperate,” and how their beauty will be preserved through the written word, “So long as men can breathe or eyes can see.” This profound idea of immortalizing beauty through verse is a powerful testament to the potency of art.
Sonnet 130
Sonnet 130, on the other hand, takes a more unconventional approach to describing the beloved’s beauty (Shakespeare 150). The lines that particularly resonate with me are “My mistress’ eyes are nothing like the sun” and “And in some perfumes is there more delight.” Unlike traditional love poetry, Shakespeare playfully deconstructs the conventional ideals of beauty in this sonnet. These lines challenge the traditional standards of beauty and emphasize the realness and individuality of the special, which is refreshingly honest and relatable.
Appeal
What appeals to me about these lines from Sonnet 18 and Sonnet 130 is their profound contrast. Sonnet 18 embodies the quintessential theme of immortalizing love and beauty, embracing the conventional notion of beauty’s grandeur. In contrast, Sonnet 130 captures the essence of genuine love and appreciation for the beloved’s authentic qualities. Its honesty and wit add a layer of complexity to the poem, highlighting the flaws and imperfections that make the piece unique. These lines remind us that love isn’t solely about superficial beauty but can be found in the quirks and idiosyncrasies of the person we adore.
Conclusion
Shakespeare’s Sonnets 18 and 130 manifest as splendid embodiments of affection, each beckoning to distinct facets of our sentiments. The juxtaposition between these sonnets accentuates the multifaceted and profound nature of Shakespeare’s poetic prowess, showcasing his capacity to delve into an extensive spectrum of themes and emotional nuances within the realm of sonnets.
Works Cited
Shakespeare, William. All the sonnets of Shakespeare. Cambridge University Press, 2020.