Thursday, February 14, 2013

Why should I choose "Sonnet 18" for an oral recital on Shakespeare's Sonnets?

1) Because you like it.


2) It represents a good challenge when reciting its iambic pentameter structure.


3) Shakespeare's sonnets are some of the most influential poems in the history of poetry.


4) Sonnet 18 discusses the eternal theme of aging and the relentless passage of time. It considers the idea that the only permanent beauty is art (and therefore the only true beauty?)


5) It will lend gravitas and cultural worth to the recital and reassure the listeners in the sophistication of the occassion.


6) It is one of the best loved poems of all time.


7) It may awaken a member of the audience to the wonder of Shakspeare's work and so encourage another person to discover his priceless work.


8) The 'value' of a poem is not empirically quantifiable. A poem is not a government form. It is not be necessary to 'justify' the worth of art to the authorities (ie. your proctor). This hierarchical approving of art leads to artistic stagnation and censorship. Ultimately, you wish to recite the poem because its recital will mean something to you. If your rector wishes to understand that meaning, he should come to the recital, not set himself up as an artistic police officer. ;-)

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