Sonnet 116 Review

marriage impediments (1-2) T. G. Tucker explains that the first two lines are a manifest allusion to the words of the Marriage Service If any of you write out cause or just impediment why these two persons should not be joined together in holy matrimony cf. Much Ado 4. 1. 12. If either of you know any inward impediment why you should not be conjoined. Where minds are true in possessing love in the real sense dwelt upon in the sideline lines there can be no impediments through change of circumstances, outward appearance, or temporary lapses in conduct. (Tucker, 192). ends with the unsayr to remove (4) i. e. , deviates (bends) to alter its course (remove) with the departure of the lover. ever-fixed mark (5) i. e. , a lighthouse (mark = sea-mark). canvas Othello (5. 2. 305-7) Be not afraid, though you do see me weapond Here is my journeys end, here is my butt, And very sea-mark of my utmost sail. the lead story to every wandering bark (7) i. e. , the star that guides every lost ship (guiding star = Polaris). Shakespeare again mentions Polaris (also known as the north star) in Much Ado About Nothing (2. 1. 222) and Julius Caesar (3. 1. 65).Whose worths unknown, although his height be taken (8) The subject here is still the north star. The stars true value can neer truly be calculated, although its height can be measured. Loves not Times fool (9) i. e. , love is not at the mercy of Time. Within his bending sickles compass fall down (10) i. e. , physical beauty falls within the range (compass) of Times curved blade. Note the comparison of Time to the Grim Reaper, the scythe-wielding personification of death. edge of doom (12) i. e. , Doomsday. Compare 1 Henry IV (4. 1. 141) Come, let us take a muster speedily Doomsday is near die all, die merrily.