Background: this was originally titled something else, but I can’t for the life of me remember what it was! This was written as an assignment for our final unit in English Literature. It very roughly follows the Italian sonnet form in iambic pentameter with a few deviations, not unlike Labe’s work.
Sonnet to Silence
(c) April 2008 to Vivian Lee
AP English Literature V 2nd period Bickling
This diamond-ridged pure silver pane of haze
Reflects the heart that hopes, yet cannot be,
The perfect second half of life like she,
a precious object of your secret praise.
For though you spoke of sweetness, bliss, and zest
The words of love and joy concealed false front.
The bitter star of day lies down in rest
The veil of twilight calls for my exeunt.
Your absence hangs, a mist, among the trees,
Which gesture to my own remorse and pain,
And hints of hope from bottled blessings flee.
To where, and whence, departed you, my dear?
I need not cry your noble name in vain
For broken mirrors shall heed not my pleas.