What is your substance, whereof are you made, That…
“What is your substance, whereof are you made, That millions of strange shadows on you tend? Since everyone hath every one, one shade, And you, but one, can every shadow lend. Describe Adonis, and the counterfeit Is poorly imitated after you. On Helen’s cheek all art of beauty set, And you in Grecian tires are painted new. Speak of the spring and foison of the year; The one doth shadow of your beauty show, The other as your bounty doth appear, And you in every blessèd shape we know. In all external grace you have some part, But you like none, none you, for constant heart.”
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 praises a unique beauty that surpasses all others, likening it to a perfect, unshadowed form.
In simple terms: A perfect beauty unlike any other.
Key Takeaway
Recognize unique beauty.
Themes
beauty
identity
uniqueness
Mood
contemplative
admiring
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- art criticism
- personal reflection
- literary analysis
Key Concepts
Shakespearean metaphor
ideal form
comparative imagery
Questions to Reflect On
- What makes true beauty singular?
- How do we compare ourselves to ideals?