Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Sonnet" is a poem by Henry King, an English poet who lived in the 17th century. The poem is a reflection on love and the fleeting nature of physical beauty.

The first line, "Tell me no more how fair she is," sets the tone for the poem. The speaker acknowledges the beauty of the woman in question, but is no longer swayed by it. The second line, "I have no mind to hear," suggests a desire to move beyond the surface level of physical attraction and into deeper, more meaningful aspects of a relationship.

The third line, "A voice is now another's care," implies that the woman is already spoken for or unattainable. This further reinforces the speaker's desire to detach from her beauty and move on from his infatuation.

The fourth line, "The winds and waters are," serves as a metaphor for the impermanence of physical beauty. Like the natural elements, beauty is subject to change and decay.

The final two lines, "It matters not how fair she be, / Let her be good and fair to me," reveal the speaker's true desires. He is no longer concerned with superficial beauty, but rather seeks a woman who is virtuous and kind. The repetition of "fair" highlights the contrast between physical beauty and inner goodness.

In conclusion, "Sonnet" by Henry King is a reflection on the transience of physical beauty and the importance of seeking deeper, more meaningful connections in love. The poem's message is timeless and relevant to contemporary society, as it encourages individuals to look beyond the surface level and prioritize inner qualities in relationships.

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