In William Shakespeare's play "Othello," the speaker expresses the vulnerability of showing true feelings to the world. The phrase "But I will wear my heart upon my sleeve" suggests a willingness to be open and transparent about one's emotions, inviting scrutiny and potential hurt from others, much like a bird pecking at something exposed. This reflects the themes of honesty and deception in relationships.
Moreover, the line "I am not what I am" highlights the complexity of identity and the layers beneath one's presentation. It implies that outward appearances may be deceiving, and there’s often more beneath the surface. This duality emphasizes the struggles of characters in Othello, who grapple with trust, betrayal, and the truths they hide from one another.