Notes for Shakespeare's Sonnet 45


Return
to
Shakespeare's
Sonnet
45

1. the other two: i.e., the other two, besides earth and water, of the four elements mentioned in the previous sonnet.  slight air: i.e., thought.   purging fire: i.e., desire.

2. wherever I abide: wherever I am.

4. These present-absent with swift motion slide: —I believe this odd line means that the poet's thoughts and desires are constantly present to him and constantly absent because they are both constantly running back and forth between himself and his beloved.

5. quicker elements: air and fire; the remaining two elements (of Shakespeare's day) are earth and water.

6. tender embassy of love: i.e., a journey meant to convey a tender love message.

9. recured: restored.