Poem Analysis - Sonnet 72 O Lest The World Should Task You To Recite

An Introduction to Self-Deprecation and Sacrifice

Shakespeare's Sonnet 72 is a poignant exploration of humility and self-sacrifice within the context of love. The poem expresses the speaker's desire to be forgotten after death, fearing that any praise from his beloved would be perceived as false or undeserved. The tone is initially self-deprecating and anxious, shifting towards a resolution to protect the beloved's reputation. Ultimately, the speaker prioritizes the integrity of their love and the beloved's public image over his own posthumous recognition.

The Burden of Unworthiness and Shifting Reputation

A central theme in this sonnet is the speaker’s perceived unworthiness. He believes his merits are insufficient to justify his beloved's affection, expressing concern that any posthumous praise would be an exaggeration or a "virtuous lie." This feeds directly into the overarching fear of damaging the reputation of his beloved. The speaker acknowledges that being loved by a good person reflects well on the recipient, but in reverse, he fears that the goodness of his beloved would be undermined by being tied to him, someone he deems of "nothing worth". This concern leads to a focus on reputation, not his own, but that of the person he loves, creating a selfless sacrifice that prioritizes his loved one's standing in society.

Love and Sacrifice: A Paradoxical Expression

Shakespeare uses the paradox of love and sacrifice to build the poem’s emotional core. The speaker's love for his beloved is so profound that he is willing to forgo any posthumous acclaim to safeguard their reputation. This act of self-effacement highlights the depth of his affection. He chooses to "be buried where my body is,/ And live no more to shame nor me nor you," showing a willingness to erase his existence to avoid causing embarrassment or suspicion for his lover. This is not a love seeking validation or recognition, but one content in its quiet strength and willing to make the ultimate sacrifice of memory.

Burial and Oblivion: Symbolic Erasure

The recurring image of burial functions as a powerful symbol of erasure and oblivion. The speaker wishes not only for his physical death but also for the death of his name and memory. "My name be buried where my body is," he implores, expressing a desire for complete and utter forgetfulness. This image underscores his deep-seated insecurity and his willingness to disappear entirely to protect his beloved from potential criticism or shame. The verb 'buried' has strong connotations of finality, suggesting the speaker views this step as necessary and resolute, furthering our understanding of his selfless commitment.

Final Thoughts: A Legacy of Selflessness

In conclusion, Sonnet 72 is a deeply moving exploration of love, self-doubt, and sacrifice. The speaker's desire to be forgotten stems from a profound concern for the reputation and well-being of his beloved. By prioritizing the other person's image over his own legacy, the poem offers a complex portrait of selfless love. The poem leaves the reader pondering the nature of true love – is it truly selfless when it demands the complete erasure of one's own identity, or is there a hidden element of self-pity within this act of ultimate renunciation?