The sonnet begins with a question to engage the reader and pique their curiosity. This technique serves to immediately grab the reader's attention and draw them into the poem. It maintains an air of mystery and intrigue throughout the poem.
Evidence from the text to support this can be found in the opening lines: "Shall I compare thee to a summer's day?" (Line 1). By starting with a question, the speaker is not only questioning whether they should compare the person to a summer's day but also questioning the person's qualities and comparing them to the transient beauty of a summer's day. The use of a question rather than a statement sets the tone of uncertainty and contemplation, encouraging the reader to contemplate the depth and significance of the comparison.
Why does the sonnet begin with a question? What effect does this have on the poem’s tone? Cite evidence from the text in your response.
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