William Shakespeare's sonnets are a collection of 154 poems that explore themes such as love, beauty, time, and mortality. Written in the 16th century, these sonnets are widely regarded as some of the greatest works in English literature. The poems follow a specific structure—each sonnet consists of 14 lines written in iambic pentameter and follows the rhyme scheme ABABCDCDEFEFGG. Shakespeare's sonnets are typically divided into two main groups: the Fair Youth sequence, which addresses a young man of great beauty and promise, and the Dark Lady sequence, which explores a more complex, often darker relationship with a woman.
Shakespeare's sonnets delve into timeless human emotions, making them resonate with readers across generations. They reflect the poet's mastery of language, as well as his ability to capture the complexities of human experience, from the fleeting nature of life to the eternal power of love and beauty. These sonnets continue to influence literature and culture, cementing Shakespeare's legacy as one of the greatest poets in history.