Notes for Shakespeare's Sonnet 82


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Shakespeare's
Sonnet
82

1. Muse: a guiding spirit; source of inspiration.

2. attaint: dishonor; blame, discredit.   o'erlook: peruse; examine closely.

3. dedicated: devoted. —Shakespeare is probably also alluding to the common practice of dedicating books to rich nobles in hopes of garnering attention and money.   writers: i.e., other writers.

4. blessing every book: i.e., gracing every such book with your perusal.

5. fair: beautiful.   hue: appearance.

6. limit: extent; reach.

8. Some fresher stamp of the time-bettering days: Some more up-to-date imprint of this era of progress.

11. truly sympathized: truly matched; faithfully described.

13. gross painting: extravagant compliment.

14. abused: misapplied.