> I can't speak authoritatively either, but the theory I've heard that seems most plausible is that Shakespeare wrote a lot of these sonnets as work for hire, or some such -- in much the same way someone might commission a portrait, so also might some rich fop without the penchant for language might commission a sonnet for his or her beloved.

I had never considered this before, but it certainly fits with the artistic philosophy of the Renaissance. There was no shame in "selling out" and no belief that art created for sale was somehow impure or inauthentic.

Thanks for posting the sonnets and commentary, Chrysanthemum. Reading a little good poetry usually brightens my day.

10"Ooh! Ooh! Do Donne next!"Kan