Sonnet 7 by William Shakespeare: Poem and Analysis

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 General Introduction:

Sonnet 7 by William Shakespeare is a poignant exploration of the cycle of life and the theme of procreation. This sonnet draws parallels between the rising and setting sun, using vivid imagery and metaphor to convey the inevitability of aging and the urgent need for offspring.

The Poem

VII

Lo! in the orient when the gracious light

Lifts up his burning head, each under eye

Doth homage to his new-appearing sight,

Serving with looks his sacred majesty;

And having climb‘d the steep-up heavenly hill,

Resembling strong youth in his middle age,

Yet mortal looks adore his beauty still,

Attending on his golden pilgrimage:

But when from highmost pitch, with weary car,

Like feeble age, he reeleth from the day,

The eyes, ‘fore duteous, now converted are

From his low tract, and look another way:

    So thou, thyself outgoing in thy noon:

    Unlook‘d, on diest unless thou get a son

.

Title:

The title, "Lo! in the orient when the gracious light," sets the tone for a contemplation on the natural order and the passing of time, invoking the imagery of the rising sun.

Themes:

- Life's Cycle: The sonnet explores the natural cycle of life, comparing it to the journey of the sun from dawn to dusk.

- Beauty and Transience: Beauty, like the sun, is celebrated in its prime but wanes with time. The sonnet underscores the transient nature of physical attractiveness.

- Procreation and Legacy: The urgency of procreation emerges as a central theme, emphasizing the desire for an enduring legacy.

Literary Devices

Tone and Mood:

The tone is reflective, acknowledging the beauty of youth and the inevitability of aging. The mood transitions from admiration to a sense of urgency, particularly in the concluding lines.

Imagery:

The imagery is vivid, painting a picture of the rising sun and its symbolic connection to youth, strength, and beauty. The sonnet's vivid descriptions enhance the emotional impact.

Symbolism:

The sun serves as a powerful symbol, representing both the beauty of youth and the inevitable decline of age. It symbolizes the cycle of life and the passage of time.

Metaphors and Similes:

Metaphors include comparing the sun to "strong youth in his middle age" and likening the sun's descent to "feeble age." The sonnet uses simile in describing mortal looks adoring the sun's beauty.

Language and Diction:

The language is rich and poetic, employing archaic expressions characteristic of Shakespearean sonnets. Diction is carefully chosen to evoke the imagery of the sun's journey and the urgency in the call for procreation.

Structure:

Sonnet 7 follows the traditional Shakespearean sonnet structure with 14 lines, written in iambic pentameter. The rhyme scheme is ABABCDCDEFEFGG.

Sound and Rhythm:

The iambic pentameter contributes to a rhythmic and melodious flow, enhancing the sonnet's musicality. The rhyme scheme adds to the overall structure and coherence.

Syntax:

The syntax is eloquent and intricate, reflecting the sonnet's complex exploration of life's stages. The inversion of phrases is used to create emphasis and enhance the poetic quality.

Context:

Within the context of the Elizabethan era, the sonnet aligns with the prevalent themes of beauty, time, and procreation. The focus on the natural world and its parallels to human experience reflects Renaissance ideas.

Summary of Literary Devices:

Sonnet 7 employs metaphor, symbolism, and vivid imagery to convey the fleeting nature of beauty and the urgency of procreation. The sonnet adheres to traditional structure, utilizing iambic pentameter and a carefully crafted rhyme scheme. The language is poetic, with archaic diction adding depth and nuance.

Conclusion:

Sonnet 7 is a masterful exploration of the transient nature of life and beauty, utilizing the metaphor of the sun's journey to convey the inevitability of aging. Through rich language, vivid imagery, and skillful use of poetic devices, Shakespeare weaves a compelling narrative that emphasizes the importance of procreation and the desire for a lasting legacy.