But I, that am not shaped for sportive tricks, Nor made to…
“But I, that am not shaped for sportive tricks, Nor made to court an amorous looking-glass; I, that am rudely stamped, and want love's majesty To strut before a wanton ambling nymph; I, that am curtailed of this fair proportion, Cheated of feature by dissembling nature, Deformed, unfinished, sent before my time Into this breathing world, scarce half made up, And that so lamely and unfashionable That dogs bark at me as I halt by them,-- Why, I, in this weak piping time of peace, Have no delight to pass away the time, Unless to spy my shadow in the sun.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The speaker laments physical imperfections and societal rejection, feeling out of place and yearning for acceptance despite personal flaws.
In simple terms: Physical flaws cause social alienation and self-doubt.
Key Takeaway
Seek self-acceptance beyond external judgment.
Themes
self-image
alienation
beauty standards
Mood
wistful
introspective
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- play monologue
- Elizabethan drama
- poetic soliloquy
Key Concepts
social exclusion
personal identity
self-worth
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you define personal worth?
- Can imperfections be embraced?
A Different Perspective
The archaic language may limit modern relevance.