In "Sonnet 138," Shakespeare explores the complex relationship between truth and love. The poet portrays a situation where both parties involved, the speaker and their lover, are aware of each other's deceit yet continue to engage in a relationship built on lies. Through his use of diction, tone, and figurative language, Shakespeare emphasizes the paradoxical nature of their love and the power dynamics at play.
One of the ways Shakespeare portrays the complex relationship between truth and love is through his choice of diction. The speaker describes his lover as someone who "swears that she is made of truth" but acknowledges that he knows she lies (line 1). The contrast between the lover's false claims and the speaker's awareness of her lies highlights the intricate web of deceit that love can encompass. This diction of contrasting words creates a sense of irony, emphasizing the complexity of their relationship.
The tone of the sonnet also contributes to the depiction of the complex relationship between truth and love. The speaker's tone is resigned and accepting, as he states, "Simply I credit her false-speaking tongue" (line 8). The word "simply" suggests that the speaker does not question or challenge the lies. Instead, he accepts them with a sense of resignation, suggesting that he prioritizes the illusion of love over the truth. The tone reflects the intricate balance between truth and love, where the truth is willingly suppressed to maintain the relationship.
Shakespeare employs figurative language to illustrate the complex relationship between truth and love. The speaker uses a metaphor when he says, "O! love's best habit is in seeming trust" (line 12). Here, love is personified as having a "habit" of appearing trustworthy, even when it is built on lies. This metaphor conveys the idea that love thrives on a façade of trust, even if it contradicts the truth. The use of figurative language further explores the multifaceted nature of their relationship and the role of deception in their love.
Overall, through his use of diction, tone, and figurative language, Shakespeare portrays the intricate and paradoxical relationship between truth and love in "Sonnet 138." The contrasting words, resigned tone, and vivid metaphors illustrate the complex dynamics between the speaker and their lover, where truth is willingly suppressed in favor of sustaining a relationship built on lies. Shakespeare provokes contemplation on the interplay between truth and love and leaves the reader questioning the authenticity of a love built on deceit.
Carefully read William Shakespeare's "Sonnet 138." Then, in a well-organized essay, analyze how the poet portrays the complex relationship between truth and love. Be sure to consider the poet's use of literary devices, such as diction, tone, and figurative language and include examples in your response. Your essay should be at least three paragraphs in length.
"Sonnet 138" by William Shakespeare
When my love swears that she is made of truth,
I do believe her though I know she lies,
That she might think me some untutor'd youth,
Unlearned in the world's false subtleties.
Thus vainly thinking that she thinks me young,
Although she knows my days are past the best,
Simply I credit her false-speaking tongue:
On both sides thus is simple truth suppressed:
But wherefore says she not she is unjust?
And wherefore say not I that I am old?
O! love's best habit is in seeming trust,
And age in love, loves not to have years told:
Therefore I lie with her, and she with me,
And in our faults by lies we flatter'd be.
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