- Published: June 9, 2022
- Updated: June 9, 2022
- University / College: Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
- Level: Masters
- Language: English
- Downloads: 9
Let me not to the marriage of true minds (Sonnet CXVI) The poem, “ Let me not to the marriage of true minds,” is one the most popular of Shakespearian sonnets. It is a favorite reading in weddings, wedding anniversaries and other special occasions that celebrate love, true love and everlasting love.
I believe that this poem is about love in its purest and truest sense. Although the word marriage is in the title, the love described in the poem is not limited to the love between husband and wife. Indeed, “ the marriage of true minds” refers to the great love between two persons such that they are now in essence of one heart and one mind. They are one in love. True love unites two persons in such a way that no change in situation, distance or time could separate them.
Love is that “ ever-fixed mark” which points them towards the direction of the other whenever true lovers are separated. “ It is the star to every wandering bark, Whose worths unknown, although his height be taken.” Aptly, even in times of conflict or silence when each person begins to have doubts on their relationship, love will bring them together. Like a guiding star that brings troubled ships to the shore, love will find them and point them towards the right path.
Love will stand the test of time. Beauty will come and go but true love will endure till the end of time. On the last two lines, Shakespeare then gives the assurance that his definition of love is true and dares anyone who would like to prove him wrong. This poem is the definition of love by the person who has found true love. And anyone who has loved or believes in love will agree with all that he has written. True love is real.
Reference:
William Shakespeare. Let me not to the marriage of true minds. Sonnet 116. Available at http://www. poets. org/viewmedia. php/prmMID/19398