As an unperfect actor on the stage, Who with his fear is put besides his part,Or some fierce thing replete with too much rage,Whose strength's abundance weakens his own heart; So I, for fear of trust, forget to say The perfect ceremony of love's rite, And in mine own love's strength seem to decay,O'ercharg'd with burden of mine own love's might. O, let my books be then the eloquenceAnd dumb presagers of my speaking breast;Who plead for love, and look for recompense,More than that tongue that more hath more express'd.O, learn to read what silent love hath writ:To hear with eyes belongs to love's fine wit.
In this excerpt, the speaker reflects on their inability to express love adequately due to fear and overwhelming emotion. They compare themselves to an actor who is unable to perform their role effectively because of anxiety, suggesting that this apprehension prevents them from fully articulating their feelings. The intensity of their love, rather than empowering them, seems to weaken their resolve and ability to communicate.
The speaker hopes that their written words can convey the depth of their emotions better than spoken language can. They believe that love sometimes communicates more profoundly through silence and nonverbal signs, emphasizing that true understanding in love might require one to "hear" with their eyes. This highlights the complexities of love and the challenges of expressing it verbally when weighed down by intense feelings.
