'Sonnet' Summary

Richard Watson Gilder's sonnet, a beloved work in American poetry, delves into the multifaceted nature of love, weaving together themes of physical beauty and spiritual connection. The poem evokes a sense of wonder at the natural world, using evocative imagery to capture the beauty of a summer day. However, a melancholic undercurrent permeates the sonnet, as Gilder acknowledges the transient nature of life and the inevitable passage of time. He reflects on the impermanence of beauty and the bittersweet quality of love, drawing a poignant contrast between the vibrant present and the looming shadow of mortality. The sonnet concludes on a note of hope and enduring love, suggesting that even as time marches on, the spirit of love can transcend earthly boundaries and live on eternally.