today is the supposed birthday of legendary english poet and playwright william shakespeare (baptised april 26, 1564 - april 23, 1616).
like everyone else on the planet, i had to study him in high school, which of course meant that there was no way i was going to appreciate his work (except maybe when the leonardo di'caprio version of romeo and juliet came out...). but being as mushy as i am these days, i can always appreciate a good love poem.
sonnet 15
when i consider every thing that grows
holds in perfection but a little moment,
that this huge stage presenteth nought but shows
whereon the stars in secret influence comment;
when i perceive that men as plants increase,
cheered and cheque'd even by the self-same sky,
vaunt in their youthful sap, at height decrease,
and wear their brave state out of memory;
then the conceit of this inconstant stay
sets you most rich in youth before my sight,
where wasteful Time debateth with Decay,
to change your day of youth to sullied night;
and all in war with Time for love of you,
as he takes from you, i engraft you new.
holds in perfection but a little moment,
that this huge stage presenteth nought but shows
whereon the stars in secret influence comment;
when i perceive that men as plants increase,
cheered and cheque'd even by the self-same sky,
vaunt in their youthful sap, at height decrease,
and wear their brave state out of memory;
then the conceit of this inconstant stay
sets you most rich in youth before my sight,
where wasteful Time debateth with Decay,
to change your day of youth to sullied night;
and all in war with Time for love of you,
as he takes from you, i engraft you new.
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