

Instead it’s about true, everlasting, and deep connection between two people. Though the word marriage is used, the sonnet has nothing to do with getting married, or the institution of marriage. I believe this is a testament to what love is really about. This is a truly beautiful sonnet and definitely worth exploring further. This oft-quoted sonnet is a staple of weddings for this very reason. Basically this is theme of every romantic film ever in Twilight, they take this idea to the next level by literally becoming immortal to be together forever. This is a theme that has carried on through our poetic tradition and modern storytelling tradition: true love that never ends.

The core notion is that love is “never shaken” and an “ever-fixed mark”. This sonnet deals with the nature of love, investigating what it is, and what it is not. Though the opening line of these sonnets may be familiar, we plan on diving a little deeper into the text to see if we can unpack what sonnet 116 is all about! This iconic Shakespeare sonnet sits alongside other classics such as Sonnet 18 (Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day?) and 130 (My mistress’ eyes are nothing like the sun). Sonnet 116 is one of Shakespeare’s most well-loved sonnets. Try your hand, see how much of this sonnet stuff you want to play with, and no matter what, enjoy the experience of writing poetry.Let me not to the marriage of true minds admit impediments. Final couplet resolves the issue or problem in the sonnet.Iambic pentameter in some or all of the 14 lines.A turn, or “volta”-some kind of shift in tone or thought.A big idea or feeling or issue (like love, or heartbreak, or a problem to be solved).

14 lines (though there are “stretched sonnets” of 15 and 16 lines, too).How fancy you get is up to you! The basics Here’s a quick list to help you get started. Sonneteers have been bending and breaking the sonnet form for ages, so share whatever you’ve got!

Shakespearean sonnets use iambic pentameter and an ABAB CDCD EFEF GG rhyme scheme, but don’t worry too much about all that. It usually takes a turn, called a “volta,” about 8 lines in, and then resolves the issue by the end. Sonnets have been around for over seven centuries, maybe because they’re so much fun to write! A sonnet is a poem of 14 lines that reflects upon a single issue or idea.
