Sonnets Step-By-Step (Page 3 of 4) in pdf

Sonnets Step-By-Step Page 3

Now mark the rhyme scheme in the following Shakespearean sonnet and identify the octet,

sestet, and couplet. What is being said in each?

Sonnet 23

1. As an unperfect actor on the stage

2. Who with his fear is put besides his part,

3. Or some fierce thing replete with too much rage,

4. Whose strength's abundance weakens his own heart.

5. So I, for fear of trust, forget to say

6. The perfect ceremony of love's rite,

7. And in mine own love's strength seem to decay,

8. O'ercharged with burden of mine own love's might.

9. O, let my books be then the eloquence

10. And dumb presagers of my speaking breast,

11. Who plead for love and look for recompense

12. More than that tongue that more hath more express'd.

13. O, learn to read what silent love hath writ:

14. To hear with eyes belongs to love's fine wit.

Translate S hakespea re’s language:

What is being said or shown in the octet?

What is being said in the sestet?

5. You r turn.

Write a rough draft. Choose a message you’d like to deliver to someone

through a sonnet. Using iambic pentameter and the Shakespearean rhyme scheme, write a

14-line poem. Make sure to end the octet with the end of a sentence and contain the couplet

to a sentence. In addition to following the correct form, you must also include a

minimum of one simile, one metaphor, and alliteration.

Ideas:

Tell a friend how special they are to you.

Tell someone about a mistake.

Ask someone for permission for something.

Ask for forgiveness.

Give encouragement.

Write about the feelings your hobby (sports, acting, singing, etc.) gives you.

Write about your pet.

Sonnets Step-By-Step Page 3