Poem Analysis - Sonnet 127 In The Old Age Black Was Not Counted Fair

Introduction: A Defense of Unconventional Beauty

Shakespeare's Sonnet 127 is a bold defense of a dark-haired, dark-eyed mistress in a society that prizes fair skin and blonde hair. The poem begins with a statement about historical beauty standards and quickly transitions into a critique of artificial enhancements. There’s a noticeable shift from a general observation to a personal declaration of love and admiration. The tone is initially somewhat accusatory towards those who falsify beauty, but it ultimately transforms into a celebration of the mistress's unique allure.

The Tyranny of Artificial Beauty: A Critique

One of the main themes of the poem is the contrast between natural and artificial beauty. Shakespeare laments how "Art's false borrowed face" distorts true beauty. The phrase "Fairing the foul" suggests that people are actively trying to make unattractive features appear beautiful, thus undermining the value of genuine beauty. This theme is developed through imagery of deceit and pretense, implying that artificial beauty is not only false but also a form of slander against nature itself. Shakespeare argues that this artificial standard cheapens the true essence of beauty, making it almost unrecognizable.

Black as Beauty: Challenging Conventions

Another significant theme is the rejection of conventional beauty standards. The opening lines establish that "black was not counted fair" in the past, creating a stark contrast with the present where "black beauty's successive heir." The speaker's mistress, with her "raven black" eyes, embodies this unconventional beauty. The poem suggests that beauty standards are subjective and influenced by social trends. By celebrating the mistress’s dark features, Shakespeare challenges the prevailing norms and asserts that beauty can exist outside the narrow confines of traditional expectations. This is not just a preference, but a conscious rebellion against societal norms.

Mourning Eyes: Symbolism of Darkness and Truth

The image of the mistress's "raven black" eyes serves as a powerful symbol throughout the poem. They are described as "mourners" for those who falsely claim beauty, suggesting a sense of honesty and moral superiority. The darkness of her eyes could symbolize a deeper understanding of true beauty, one that sees beyond superficial appearances. The fact that her eyes "mourn" also suggests a certain sadness or disapproval towards the artificiality of beauty in the world, reinforcing the theme of genuine versus false. This is an interesting interpretation of the mistress's appearance, suggesting that her beauty is not just aesthetic, but also carries a weight of ethical awareness.

Conclusion: A Lasting Impression

In conclusion, Sonnet 127 is a powerful statement about the subjective nature of beauty and the dangers of artificiality. Shakespeare uses vivid imagery and a defiant tone to challenge conventional standards and celebrate the unique beauty of his dark-haired mistress. The poem ultimately suggests that true beauty lies not in conforming to societal expectations, but in embracing individuality and natural characteristics. The enduring significance of this sonnet lies in its timeless relevance to discussions of beauty, authenticity, and the pressure to conform to societal ideals. It makes us question what is considered beautiful, and why.