Sonnet 116

Shakespeare

Famous Lines

"Let me not to the marriage of true minds Admit impediments."

This opening line immediately captures attention with its strong statement. It sets the stage for the poem's theme of unwavering love and rejects any obstacles that might stand in its way. The powerful alliteration of "m" and "t" also makes it memorable.

"Love is not love Which alters when it alteration finds."

This line effectively defines what love is not—fickle and changeable. The repetition of "love" emphasizes its importance, while the wordplay with "alters" and "alteration" creates a catchy rhythm. Its concise expression of a universal sentiment contributes to its popularity.