Sonnet 29: When, in disgrace with fortune and men’s eyes

From The Poem Reader by Dominic Frisby

May 23, 2025 · 1 min

About this episode

This episode explores Sonnet 29, delving into themes of disgrace, self-reflection, and the uplifting power of love.

When, in disgrace with fortune and men’s eyes,I all alone beweep my outcast state,And trouble deaf heaven with my bootless cries,And look upon myself, and curse my fate,Wishing me like to one more rich in hope,Featur’d like him, like him with friends possess’d,Desiring this man’s art and that man’s scope,With what I most enjoy contented least;Yet in these thoughts myself almost despising,Haply I think on thee, and then my state,Like to the lark at break of day arisingFrom sullen earth, sings hymns at heaven’s gate;For thy sweet love remember’d such wealth bringsThat then I scorn to change my state with kings. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.thepoemreader.com

People in this episode

Host: Dominic Frisby

Topics covered

sonnet analysis
poetry
emotions
self-reflection
love

Keywords

Sonnet 29
poetry analysis
William Shakespeare
self-doubt
love
hope
emotional state

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: Sonnet 29: When, in disgrace with fortune and men’s eyes