Sonnet 130
“Sonnet 130” is a poem by William Shakespeare that challenges the traditional ideals of beauty often found in love poetry. Instead of idealizing his beloved, the speaker describes her in realistic terms, noting that she does not possess the conventional attributes of beauty, such as bright eyes or perfect skin.
Despite these unflattering comparisons, the speaker expresses genuine love for her. He asserts that his affection is authentic and not based on superficial qualities. The poem ultimately emphasizes that true love transcends physical appearance, celebrating the uniqueness of the beloved rather than conforming to societal standards.