William Shakespeare

Sonnet 109: O, Never Say That I Was False of Heart

Sonnet 109: O, Never Say That I Was False of Heart - meaning Summary

Reassurance of Faithful Love

The speaker insists he has not been unfaithful, arguing physical absence did not weaken his devotion. He compares leaving and returning to travel, claiming his love remains rooted in the beloved’s heart. Even if human weakness existed, he says nothing could make him abandon the beloved, who alone gives meaning to the universe. The poem is a direct plea for trust and affirmation of constancy.

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O, never say that I was false of heart, Though absence seemed my flame to qualify. As easy might I from my self depart As from my soul which in thy breast doth lie. That is my home of love; if I have ranged, Like him that travels I return again, Just to the time, not with the time exchanged, So that myself bring water for my stain. Never believe though in my nature reigned All frailties that besiege all kinds of blood, That it could so preposterously be stained To leave for nothing all thy sum of good; For nothing this wide universe I call Save thou, my rose, in it thou art my all.

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