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Classic and Contemporary Poetry


SONNET: 18 by THOMAS WYATT

Poet Analysis

First Line: THOUGH I MYSELF BE BRIDLED OF MY MIND
Last Line: WHEREBY HIS ABSENCE TURNETH HIM TO SORROW.'
Subject(s): GRIEF; HONOR; LOVE; TIME; TRUTH; SORROW; SADNESS;

Though I myself be bridled of my mind,
Returning me backward by force express,
If thou seek honour to keep thy promise,
Who may thee hold, my heart, but thou thyself unbind?
Sign then no more since no way man may find
Thy virtue to let though that frowardness
Of fortune me holdeth; and yet as I may guess,
Though other be present, thou art not all behind.
Suffice it then that thou be ready there
At all hours, still under the defence
Of time, truth, and love to save thee from offence,
Crying, 'I burn in a lovely desire
With my dear master's that may not follow,
Whereby his absence turneth him to sorrow.'



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