The speaker of "Sonnet 75" is a poet. Now, we're not going to say that the speaker necessarily is Edmund Spenser himself. Let's instead say that these two have a lot in common. And the main thing that these bros share is a love of writing and a faith in their own poetic prowess. Sure, "Sonnet 75" is a poem all about immortality, but how does one achieve immortality in Spenser's world? By writing some sweet poems, or by being written about in some sweet poems. Writing is a means to immortal ends in "Sonnet 75."
Questions About Literature and Writing
- Is the speaker being naïve in thinking that his poetry can make his beloved immortal?
- What's the difference between the types of writing in the poem: the writing of the beloved's name in the strand, and the writing of "verses" about her?
- Does the speaker prove his poetic prowess in this poem? Or are you skeptical of his skills? Why?
- If you believe that the speaker has proved his prowess, how or where do you see his skills taking shape?
- Is the poem more about the speaker's love for his gal pal, or is it more focused on the speaker's mad poetry skills?
Chew on This
This poem's not about love at all; the speaker is totally arrogant and all he cares about is his poetry. Jerkface.
Poetry is but a means to an end in "Sonnet 75"; the speaker really does want to make his beloved live on forever. All together now: awww.