Return to Shakespeare's Sonnet 19 |
4.
phoenix: The phoenix is legendary bird that was reputed to live hundreds of years, die in flames, and be reborn out of its own ashes. in her blood: i.e., in the full vigor of life.
11.
untainted: untouched by a weapon (a term from tilting).
11-12.
do allow / For beauty's pattern to succeeding men: i.e., allow my beloved to remain untouched so that he may serve as the perfect model of beauty for future generations.