Sonnet 62: Sin Of Self-love Possesseth All Mine Eye
Sin of self-love possesseth all mine eye
And all my soul, and all my every part;
And for this sin there is no remedy,
It is so grounded inward in my heart.
Methinks no face so gracious is as mine,
No shape so true, no truth of such account;
And for myself mine own worth do define,
As I all other in all worths surmount.
But when my glass shows me myself indeed
Beated and chopp’d with tanned antiquity,
Mine own self-love quite contrary I read;
Self so self-loving were iniquity.
‘Tis thee, myself, that for myself I praise,
Painting my age with beauty of thy days.
Line 1:
“Sin of self-love possesseth all mine eye”
Difficult Words Meaning:
- Sin of self-love: Excessive pride or narcissism.
- Possesseth: Occupies or controls (archaic form of “possesses”).
- Mine eye: My eye (or my vision/perception).
In-Depth Explanation of Text and Context:
The sonnet opens with the speaker confessing to the “sin of self-love,” which has taken over their entire being. The phrase “possesseth all mine eye” suggests that the speaker’s perception is dominated by their own self-admiration. This line introduces the central theme of the sonnet: the speaker’s struggle with narcissism and their eventual realization of its folly.
The tone is confessional, as the speaker acknowledges their excessive pride as a moral failing. The use of the word “sin” frames self-love as a spiritual or ethical transgression, highlighting the Renaissance ideal of humility and self-awareness.
The context here reflects the speaker’s initial self-absorption, which they later come to question and reject. This sets the stage for the sonnet’s exploration of vanity, aging, and the transformative power of love.
Line 2:
“And all my soul, and all my every part;”
Difficult Words Meaning:
- Soul: Inner self or spirit.
- Every part: Every aspect of the speaker’s being.
In-Depth Explanation of Text and Context:
The speaker expands on the idea introduced in the first line, stating that the “sin of self-love” has consumed not only their “eye” but also their “soul” and “every part” of their being. This emphasizes the all-encompassing nature of their narcissism, which has infiltrated every aspect of their identity.
The repetition of “all” underscores the totality of the speaker’s self-obsession. The tone remains confessional, as the speaker continues to grapple with the depth of their vanity. The line also hints at the speaker’s growing awareness of their condition, as they begin to question the validity of their self-love.
The context here reinforces the theme of self-reflection, as the speaker examines their own flaws and shortcomings. This introspection is a key element of the sonnet’s progression.
Line 3:
“And for this sin there is no remedy,”
Difficult Words Meaning:
- Remedy: Cure or solution.
In-Depth Explanation of Text and Context:
The speaker laments that there is “no remedy” for their “sin of self-love.” This suggests that the speaker views their narcissism as an incurable condition, deeply ingrained in their nature. The tone is one of despair, as the speaker feels trapped by their own vanity.
This line introduces a sense of hopelessness, as the speaker struggles to find a way to overcome their self-obsession. The use of the word “sin” reinforces the moral weight of their condition, framing it as a spiritual failing rather than a mere personality trait.
The context here reflects the speaker’s internal conflict, as they grapple with the consequences of their self-love. This sets the stage for the sonnet’s eventual resolution, where the speaker finds a way to transcend their vanity through love for another.
Line 4:
“It is so grounded inward in my heart.”
Difficult Words Meaning:
- Grounded: Firmly established or rooted.
- Inward: Deep within.
- Heart: Core of one’s being or emotions.
In-Depth Explanation of Text and Context:
The speaker explains that their self-love is “so grounded inward” in their “heart,” meaning it is deeply rooted in their innermost self. The phrase “grounded inward” suggests that the speaker’s narcissism is an integral part of their identity, making it difficult to overcome.
This line reinforces the idea that the speaker’s self-love is not a superficial flaw but a fundamental aspect of their being. The tone remains introspective, as the speaker continues to explore the depth of their condition.
The context here emphasizes the speaker’s struggle with their own nature, as they confront the entrenched nature of their vanity. This sets the stage for the sonnet’s eventual shift, where the speaker finds a way to redirect their love outward.
Line 5:
“Methinks no face so gracious is as mine,”
Difficult Words Meaning:
- Methinks: It seems to me (archaic form of “I think”).
- Gracious: Attractive, elegant, or pleasing.
In-Depth Explanation of Text and Context:
The speaker declares that “no face so gracious is as mine,” expressing their belief that their own face is the most attractive and pleasing. The word “gracious” conveys a sense of elegance and beauty, highlighting the speaker’s inflated self-image.
This line exemplifies the speaker’s narcissism, as they compare themselves favorably to everyone else. The tone is boastful, reflecting the speaker’s excessive pride. However, this pride is soon challenged, as the speaker’s self-perception is called into question.
The context here explores the theme of vanity, as the speaker’s self-love reaches its peak before being undermined by reality. This sets the stage for the sonnet’s turning point, where the speaker’s illusions are shattered.
Line 6:
“No shape so true, no truth of such account;”
Difficult Words Meaning:
- Shape: Physical form or appearance.
- True: Genuine or perfect.
- Account: Value or importance.
In-Depth Explanation of Text and Context:
The speaker continues to praise themselves, claiming that “no shape so true” (no physical form as perfect) and “no truth of such account” (no truth as valuable) exists as their own. This line reinforces the speaker’s belief in their own superiority, both in terms of physical appearance and moral worth.
The tone remains boastful, as the speaker’s self-admiration reaches its height. However, the use of the word “truth” introduces an ironic undertone, as the speaker’s perception of themselves is about to be challenged.
The context here highlights the speaker’s delusion, as their inflated self-image is contrasted with the reality of their aging and imperfections. This sets the stage for the sonnet’s shift in perspective.
Line 7:
“And for myself mine own worth do define,”
Difficult Words Meaning:
- Worth: Value or merit.
- Define: Determine or describe.
In-Depth Explanation of Text and Context:
The speaker declares that they “do define” their own worth, meaning they determine their own value without external validation. This line reflects the speaker’s self-sufficiency and arrogance, as they place themselves above others in their own estimation.
The tone is confident, bordering on hubris, as the speaker takes pride in their ability to judge their own worth. However, this self-assurance is soon undermined, as the speaker’s perception of themselves is called into question.
The context here explores the theme of self-evaluation, as the speaker’s inflated sense of worth is contrasted with the reality of their imperfections. This sets the stage for the sonnet’s turning point.
Line 8:
“As I all other in all worths surmount.”
Difficult Words Meaning:
- All other: Everyone else.
- Worths: Values or merits.
- Surmount: Exceed or surpass.
In-Depth Explanation of Text and Context:
The speaker claims that they “surmount” (exceed) “all other in all worths,” meaning they believe themselves to be superior to everyone else in every way. This line represents the peak of the speaker’s narcissism, as they place themselves above all others in terms of value and merit.
The tone is boastful, reflecting the speaker’s excessive pride. However, this pride is about to be challenged, as the speaker’s self-perception is confronted with reality.
The context here highlights the speaker’s delusion, as their inflated sense of superiority is contrasted with the truth of their aging and imperfections. This sets the stage for the sonnet’s shift in perspective.
Line 9:
“But when my glass shows me myself indeed”
Difficult Words Meaning:
- Glass: Mirror.
- Indeed: In reality or truth.
In-Depth Explanation of Text and Context:
The sonnet takes a dramatic turn with this line, as the speaker introduces a moment of self-realization. The phrase “my glass” refers to a mirror, which reveals the speaker’s true appearance “indeed” (in reality). This marks a shift from the speaker’s earlier self-admiration to a more honest and critical self-assessment.
The tone becomes more reflective and somber, as the speaker confronts the reality of their aging and imperfections. The mirror serves as a metaphor for truth and self-awareness, forcing the speaker to see themselves as they truly are, rather than through the lens of their vanity.
The context here explores the theme of disillusionment, as the speaker’s inflated self-image is shattered by the harsh reality of their physical appearance. This sets the stage for the sonnet’s resolution, where the speaker finds a way to reconcile their self-love with the truth.
Line 10:
“Beated and chopp’d with tanned antiquity,”
Difficult Words Meaning:
- Beated: Weathered or worn down.
- Chopp’d: Marked or lined (as with age).
- Tanned: Darkened or discolored by time.
- Antiquity: Old age or the effects of aging.
In-Depth Explanation of Text and Context:
The speaker describes their reflection as “beated and chopp’d with tanned antiquity,” meaning their face is weathered, lined, and darkened by the effects of aging. The phrase “tanned antiquity” evokes the image of an old, worn object, emphasizing the speaker’s physical decline.
This line marks a stark contrast to the speaker’s earlier boasts about their beauty and worth. The tone is one of humility and resignation, as the speaker acknowledges the inevitability of aging and the fleeting nature of physical beauty.
The context here reinforces the theme of mortality, as the speaker confronts the reality of their own impermanence. This moment of self-awareness is crucial to the sonnet’s progression, as it leads the speaker to reevaluate their self-love.
Line 11:
“Mine own self-love quite contrary I read;”
Difficult Words Meaning:
- Quite contrary: Completely opposite.
- Read: Interpret or understand.
In-Depth Explanation of Text and Context:
The speaker admits that their “self-love” is now “quite contrary” to what they previously believed. The phrase “quite contrary” suggests a complete reversal of their earlier self-perception, as they realize their vanity was based on an illusion.
This line represents a moment of epiphany, as the speaker’s self-love is undermined by the truth of their aging appearance. The tone is one of disillusionment, as the speaker grapples with the gap between their self-image and reality.
The context here explores the theme of self-deception, as the speaker’s inflated sense of worth is exposed as false. This sets the stage for the sonnet’s resolution, where the speaker finds a way to redirect their love outward.
Line 12:
“Self so self-loving were iniquity.”
Difficult Words Meaning:
- Self-loving: Narcissistic or vain.
- Iniquity: Sin or wickedness.
In-Depth Explanation of Text and Context:
The speaker concludes that being “self-loving” is an “iniquity” (sin or moral failing). This line represents a complete rejection of the speaker’s earlier narcissism, as they now view their self-love as a moral transgression.
The tone is one of repentance, as the speaker acknowledges the error of their ways. The use of the word “iniquity” reinforces the moral weight of their self-love, framing it as a spiritual failing rather than a mere personality trait.
The context here reflects the speaker’s growing self-awareness and humility, as they confront the consequences of their vanity. This sets the stage for the sonnet’s resolution, where the speaker finds a way to transcend their self-love through love for another.
Line 13:
“’Tis thee, myself, that for myself I praise,”
Difficult Words Meaning:
- ’Tis thee: It is you.
- Myself: My own self.
- Praise: Admire or celebrate.
In-Depth Explanation of Text and Context:
The speaker shifts their focus from themselves to the beloved, declaring that it is “thee” (the beloved) whom they are truly praising when they praise themselves. The phrase “myself, that for myself I praise” suggests that the speaker’s self-love is actually a reflection of their love for the beloved.
This line represents a moment of clarity, as the speaker realizes that their admiration for the beloved has been projected onto themselves. The tone is one of revelation, as the speaker recognizes the true object of their devotion.
The context here explores the transformative power of love, as the speaker’s self-love is redirected outward toward the beloved. This marks a turning point in the sonnet, as the speaker finds a way to reconcile their vanity with their love for another.
Line 14:
“Painting my age with beauty of thy days.”
Difficult Words Meaning:
- Painting: Decorating or embellishing.
- Age: Old age or the effects of aging.
- Beauty of thy days: The beloved’s youthful beauty.
In-Depth Explanation of Text and Context:
The sonnet concludes with the speaker acknowledging that they are “painting” their own aging appearance with the “beauty of thy days” (the beloved’s youthful beauty). This suggests that the speaker’s love for the beloved transforms their perception of themselves, allowing them to see their own aging in a more positive light.
The phrase “painting my age” implies that the speaker’s love for the beloved acts as a kind of artistic embellishment, masking the harsh reality of their aging with the beauty of the beloved’s youth. The tone is one of acceptance and gratitude, as the speaker finds solace in their love for another.
The context here reinforces the theme of love as a transformative force, capable of redeeming the speaker’s vanity and reconciling them with the reality of their aging. The sonnet ends on a hopeful note, as the speaker’s self-love is transcended by their devotion to the beloved.
In-Depth Analysis of Sonnet 62
Summary
In Sonnet 62, Shakespeare explores themes of vanity, self-love, and the redemptive power of love. The speaker confesses to being consumed by self-love, which dominates his perception of himself, his soul, and his entire being. He acknowledges that this sin has no remedy because it is deeply ingrained in his heart.
At first, he believes no one is as beautiful or worthy as himself, placing himself above all others. However, when he looks in a mirror, reality contradicts his self-perception. He sees his aged, weathered face, revealing that his belief in his own beauty was false. The speaker then realizes that his self-praise is not for himself but for the beloved. His admiration for the beloved’s beauty allows him to see himself in a new light, as if borrowing youth and beauty through love.
Critical Analysis
1. The Sin of Self-Love
- The sonnet opens with a confession of narcissism:
- “Sin of self-love possesseth all mine eye.”
- The speaker admits that his excessive self-admiration affects not only his vision but his soul and entire being.
- He acknowledges that this kind of self-obsession has no cure because it is deeply rooted in his heart.
2. The Illusion of Self-Worth
- The speaker initially believes he is unmatched in beauty and worth:
- “No shape so true, no truth of such account.”
- He defines his own worth as surpassing all others, indicating a distorted self-image driven by self-love.
3. The Moment of Realization
- The turning point occurs when the speaker looks in a mirror:
- “But when my glass shows me myself indeed.”
- The mirror exposes the reality of aging:
- “Beated and chopp’d with tanned antiquity.”
- His once flattering self-image is shattered by the truth of time and age.
4. Redemption Through Love
- The final couplet resolves the tension by shifting the focus from self-love to love for the beloved:
- “‘Tis thee, myself, that for myself I praise, / Painting my age with beauty of thy days.”
- The speaker’s admiration for the beloved allows him to see himself through a different lens, attributing his worth to the beloved’s beauty rather than his own.
Theme Analysis
1. The Dangers of Vanity and Self-Deception
- The poem highlights the perils of excessive self-love, which blinds the speaker to reality.
- He initially believes in his own superiority but is confronted with the truth when he sees his aged reflection.
2. The Power of Love to Transform Perspective
- By the end, the speaker acknowledges that his admiration is not for himself but for the beloved.
- Love shifts his focus from self-obsession to appreciation of another’s beauty.
3. The Inevitability of Aging
- The mirror serves as a symbol of truth, revealing the effects of time.
- The speaker’s realization that he is “beated and chopp’d with tanned antiquity” emphasizes the natural decay of beauty.
4. The Role of the Beloved as a Source of Renewal
- The speaker finds a way to “paint” his own aging by associating himself with the beloved’s youth and beauty.
- This suggests that love offers a kind of immortality or preservation through admiration.
Literary Devices
1. Personification: Self-Love as a Possessor
- “Sin of self-love possesseth all mine eye.”
- Self-love is depicted as an overpowering force that takes control of the speaker’s perception.
2. Metaphor: The Mirror as Truth
- “But when my glass shows me myself indeed.”
- The mirror serves as a metaphor for self-awareness, revealing reality as opposed to illusion.
3. Contrast: Illusion vs. Reality
- The speaker initially believes in his own beauty and superiority but later sees the truth of his aging.
- This shift highlights the contrast between perception and reality.
4. Irony: Self-Love Leading to Self-Deprecation
- The speaker starts with arrogance but ends in humility, realizing that his self-praise was misplaced.
Conclusion
Sonnet 62 presents a meditation on vanity, self-deception, and the redemptive nature of love. The speaker begins with a narcissistic view of himself but undergoes a transformation when faced with the truth of aging. The final realization that his praise belongs not to himself but to the beloved suggests that love can provide a more meaningful and enduring source of admiration. Through vivid imagery and introspective reflection, Shakespeare captures the tension between self-love and genuine devotion.
