Sonnet 96: Some Say Thy Fault Is Youth, Some Wantonness
Sonnet 96: Some Say Thy Fault Is Youth, Some Wantonness - meaning Summary
Charm Rebrands Flaws as Virtues
The speaker confronts complaints about a beloved’s youth and wantonness by arguing that charm converts faults into graces. Using the image of a jewel on a queen’s finger, the poem suggests that perceived flaws gain esteem when attached to someone admired. The speaker warns that such looks could lead others astray, yet pleads restraint and claims a possessive, protective love that ensures the beloved’s good reputation remains his own.
Read Complete AnalysesSome say thy fault is youth, some wantonness; Some say thy grace is youth and gentle sport; Both grace and faults are loved of more and less; Thou mak’st faults graces that to thee resort. As on the finger of a thronèd queen, The basest jewel will be well esteemed. So are those errors that in thee are seen To truths translated, and for true things deemed. How many lambs might the stern wolf betray, If like a lamb he could his looks translate! How many gazers mightst thou lead away, if thou wouldst use the strength of all thy state! But do not so; I love thee in such sort As thou being mine, mine is thy good report.
Feel free to be first to leave comment.