The unconventional subject matter of the sonnet reflects Paterson's statement in terms of the argument that the "eye of the beholder" is referring to the poet's individual perception of sonnet writing, as whilst the melancholic tone of this poem implies an inaccurate representation of what a love poem is to the reader. To the poet it is just that as it is a true representation of "real" love and real-life problems that come with it, it is not a fairytale as depicted by traditional poetry. ... In his poem "Sonnet 130" he demonstrates a clear manipulation of the idea of love, mocking t...

• Word Count: 1540
• Approx Pages: 6
• Has Bibliography
• Grade Level: Undergraduate

Duffy's poetry has been described as "emotionally captivating" and "indescribably accessible" by many notable poetry critics, and this poem is certainly no exception to her many outstanding works. A formidable icon in the poetry industry, Duffy describes poetry as that which "comes from the imagination, from memories, from experience, from events both personal and public so [she] will be following the truth of that and [she] will write whatever needs to be written.... In the context of love, the author could possibly assert that love is more authentic and more sur...

• Word Count: 1990
• Approx Pages: 8
• Has Bibliography
• Grade Level: Undergraduate

In the simple identification of the work as poetry we already find a paradox-while the pastime of poetry is viewed often as a feminine pursuit, it was historically dominated by men. ... These seeming contradictions raise questions as to what constitutes femininity and masculinity, and how we ought to view the gray areas of gender roles-questions which the speaker grapples with in coming to terms with homosexual feelings, as evidenced by the resignation in the poem following the volta. ...

• Word Count: 1124
• Approx Pages: 4
• Has Bibliography
• Grade Level: Undergraduate