Sonnet VI: Some Lovers Speak

 Some lovers speak when they their Muses entertain, 
Of hopes begot by fear, of wot not what desires: 
Of force of heav'nly beams, infusing hellish pain: 
Of living deaths, dear wounds, fair storms, and freezing fires. 

Some one his song in Jove, and Jove's strange tales attires, 
Broidered with bulls and swans, powdered with golden rain; 
Another humbler wit to shepherd's pipe retires, 
Yet hiding royal blood full oft in rural vein. 

To some a sweetest plaint a sweetest style affords, 
While tears pour out his ink, and sighs breathe out his words: 
His paper pale despair, and pain his pen doth move. 

I can speak what I feel, and feel as much as they, 
But think that all the map of my state I display, 
When trembling voice brings forth that I do Stella love.

Form: Sonnet Comments

Comments About This Poem

Share your interpretation, favorite passage, or thoughts about this famous poem. Please provide an in-depth and meaningful comment.

  • What do you think the poet was trying to say?
  • Which line had the biggest impact on you?
  • How does this poem relate to modern life?
  • What literary devices did you notice?
No comments have been posted yet. Be the first to share your thoughts.
Get a Premium Membership
Turn off ads, get more exposure for your poetry, and get more features with a Premium Membership.
Book: Diverse Voices: The Poetry of Human Rights and the Pursuit of Peace