The sonnets (edition 2001)

Rated: C ( )

A chore to read. Shakespeare's skills with language are wasted on expressing inane ideas. ( )

Interesting little paperback edition, published in Zurich in 1882 in the English Library series. Suitable for small pocket.

As someone who really grapples with understanding Shakespeare, I found his sonnets easier to comprehend than the works I'd previously read without the guidance of a goddess English teacher (so, Hamlet, Othello, King Lear, and The Tempest). I was also reminded of the Twilight saga with every sonnet that I could comprehend (probably 78% of them; bed-time reading was a bad idea). I'm not sure if that's good or bad. ( )

Despite the slim size of this volume, it does take a fair amount of time to read. Shakespeare places much depth, detail and intensity into each sonnet. The 154 pieces of poetry need (and deserve!) to be appraised slowly, thoroughly and individually. Certain poems will appeal to certain readers. Some feel very personal, and people speak of finding "their" sonnet, (mine is XXIII - or, when I'm in a darker place, XXVIII). I think part of the bard's genius is his ability to express our emotions so perfectly, so intensely or mischievously! Shakespeare's sonnets should be considered required reading, for everybody, obviously.

O, learn to read what silent love hath writ:
To hear with eyes belongs to love's fine wit.
(Sonnet XXIII) ( )