Sonnet 141: in Faith, I Do Not Love Thee with Mine Eyes
Sonnet 141: in Faith, I Do Not Love Thee with Mine Eyes - meaning Summary
Love Against the Senses
The speaker insists his love is not based on sensory attraction: eyes, ears, touch, taste, and smell all register faults or lack delight. Despite this, his heart irrationally adores the beloved and cannot be swayed by reason or the "five wits." He portrays himself as a willing slave to the beloved's proud heart, recognizing that love brings pain and that suffering is the sole reward for his sinful devotion.
Read Complete AnalysesIn faith, I do not love thee with mine eyes, For they in thee a thousand errors note; But ’tis my heart that loves what they despise, Who in despite of view is pleased to dote. Nor are mine cars with thy tongue’s tune delighted, Nor tender feeling to base touches prone, Nor taste, nor smell, desire to be invited To any sensual feast with thee alone; But my five wits, nor my five senses can Dissuade one foolish heart from serving thee, Who leaves unswayed the likeness of a man, Thy proud heart’s slave and vassal wretch to be. Only my plague thus far I count my gain, That she that makes me sin awards me pain.
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