Analyzing a poem can be so rewarding.
My English professor assigned a “Shakespeare Poetry Explication” and I chose to do it on Sonnet 62. The beginning of the Sonnet is about the poet’s obsession with himself, and how this obsession consumes him. Later, through the help of a mirror, he discovers the ‘ugly’ truth that he has no reason to be so prideful.
The mirror in this poem is such a powerful symbol. It humbles him. Because he is so analytical and honest with himself, he is able to recognize the truth, which can sometimes be tragic.
In my opinion, he is not prideful after all. A prideful man is too blinded by his arrogance to realize the truth. The speaker, however, is confident enough to admit to his faults.
Robert Frost once said, “I have never started a poem yet whose end I knew. Writing a poem is discovering.”
Shakespeare was definitely an expert at portraying human psychology and behavior through his writing. Perhaps the genius knew the end to his poem, but he did a great job at depicting self-discovery through written word.
yours Truly Thankful,
Ani