Sonnet XXXVIII
How can my muse want subject to invent,
While thou dost breathe, that pour’st into my verse
Thine own sweet argument, too excellent
For every vulgar paper to rehearse?
O! give thyself the thanks, if aught in me
Worthy perusal stand against thy sight;
For who’s so dumb that cannot write to thee,
When thou thyself dost give invention light?
Be thou the tenth Muse, ten times more in worth
Than those old nine which rhymers invocate;
And he that calls on thee, let him bring forth
Eternal numbers to outlive long dates.
If my slight muse do please these curious days,
The pain be mine, but thine shall be the praise.
What the Poem Says (Summary)
Sonnet XXXVIII is a heartfelt declaration of inspiration. The speaker, a poet, admits his creative well feels dry unless fueled by the presence and essence of the person he loves. This beloved acts as his muse, providing the “argument” or subject matter for his poetry. He humbly suggests all credit belongs to this inspiring figure, asserting that even the most inarticulate could create beautiful work when touched by such a powerful force. Ultimately, the poem is a celebration of the muse and a generous offering of praise, acknowledging that any artistic merit comes from the beloved, not the poet himself.
How the Poem Works (Analysis)
The Structure of a Shakespearean Sonnet
This poem adheres to the strict conventions of a Shakespearean, or English, sonnet. It comprises fourteen lines of iambic pentameter—each line generally follows a rhythm of ten syllables with an unstressed then stressed pattern. This rhythm creates a natural, flowing cadence. The sonnet is divided into three quatrains—four-line stanzas—that explore different facets of the central theme, followed by a concluding couplet—two rhyming lines—that offers a concise resolution. The rhyme scheme is ABAB CDCD EFEF GG, a pattern that helps to bind the poem together and create a sense of musicality.
Key Themes and Their Expression
- Inspiration and the Muse: The most prominent theme is the power of inspiration, personified through the “thou” to whom the sonnet is addressed. The beloved isn’t merely a subject, but the very source of poetic creation. Notice how the opening line immediately establishes this dependency: “How can my muse want subject to invent, / While thou dost breathe…” The act of breathing is linked to the provision of poetic material, highlighting the muse’s vital role.
- Humility and Praise: The speaker displays remarkable humility, consistently deferring credit to the beloved. Lines like “O! give thyself the thanks, if aught in me / Worthy perusal stand against thy sight” demonstrate a willingness to relinquish ownership of his art. This isn’t false modesty; it’s a genuine recognition of the muse’s influence.
- The Desire for Immortality through Art: The poet hopes that the verses inspired by this muse will achieve lasting fame. The lines “And he that calls on thee, let him bring forth / Eternal numbers to outlive long dates” reveal a yearning for artistic immortality, suggesting that the muse’s power extends beyond inspiring a single poem—it can produce works that endure for generations.
- Reciprocity and Shared Glory: The final couplet perfectly encapsulates the relationship between poet and muse: “If my slight muse does please these curious days, / The pain be mine, but thine shall be the praise.” The poet willingly accepts any labor or pain associated with writing, but all the glory belongs to the inspiring figure. This is a selfless declaration of gratitude and admiration.
Literary Devices That Build Meaning
- Metaphor and Personification: The entire poem relies on extended metaphor. The beloved is the muse, a source of inspiration akin to the goddesses of Greek mythology. Personification is also crucial— inspiration is given the power to “give invention light” (line 8), making it a tangible, active force.
- Hyperbole and Exaggeration: The claim that the muse is “ten times more in worth / Than those old nine which rhymers invocate” (lines 9‑10) is a clear example of hyperbole. This exaggeration isn’t meant to be literal; it’s a poetic way of emphasizing the beloved’s exceptional influence.
- Allusion: The reference to the “old nine”—the nine Muses of Greek mythology—immediately establishes a classical context for the poem, linking the beloved to a long tradition of artistic inspiration.
- Imagery and Sensory Detail: While not overtly descriptive, the poem uses imagery to convey the intensity of the poet’s feelings. The idea of the muse “pouring” inspiration into the verse (line 2) creates a vivid sensory experience.
- Alliteration and Assonance: Subtle use of alliteration, such as the repetition of the “m” sound in “my muse want” (line 1), and assonance, like the repeated “e” sound in “sweet argument” (line 3), contributes to the poem’s musicality and memorability.
Why This Poem Matters
Sonnet XXXVIII offers a powerful meditation on the nature of inspiration, creativity, and the bonds between artists and their muses. It reminds us that artistic creation is rarely a solitary endeavor and that we often rely on others for support, encouragement, and, most importantly, inspiration. The poem’s themes of humility, gratitude, and selfless admiration are timeless and universally relatable. It is a testament to the transformative power of love and the enduring legacy of art.
A Quote to Remember
Be thou the tenth Muse, ten times more in worth
Than those old nine which rhymers invocate.
This line encapsulates the poem’s central message: the power of individual inspiration. Use it to acknowledge the impact a person has on your own creativity, or as a reminder that inspiration can be found in unexpected places. It’s a beautiful tribute to the individuals who ignite our imaginations and help us to realize our artistic potential.