Help with sonnets?

Question

Just general advice about how to decipher them or any sites that are simple and helpful please???

Answer 1

The sonnets are relatively straightforward. They follow a very clear and predictable pattern, both rhythmically and thematically.

Think of them as FOUR distinct sections:

Section 1) lines 1-4
Section 2) lines 5-8
Section 3) lines 9-12
Section 4) lines 13-14 (the "couplet")

In order to best understand the poems, try to follow the speaker's thought as he moves through the communication. In nearly every case, there is an ACTIVE, DEVELOPING line of thought. In other words, the speaker ends the poem in a different place from where he began. The poem builds as it goes.

There are some good websites devoted to the sonnets (search "Shakespeare sonnets" and you'll find them), as well as any number of excellent books. In particular, I like the book edited by Stephen Booth. His notes on the individual sonnets are terrific, and will certainly answer any specific questions you might have.

Enjoy.