Shakespeare is often revered as one of the world's greatest authors. His works, which have now become legend, are the subject of intense study and review. In many instances, many of today's popular motion pictures, dramas, and movies have used elements of Shakespeare's work. Shakespeare produced most of his known work between 1589 and 1613. His early plays were mainly comedies and histories, genres he raised to the peak of sophistication and artistry by the end of the 16th century. He then wrote mainly tragedies until about 1608, including Hamlet, King Lear, Othello, and Macbeth, considered some of the finest works in the English language. Many of these tragedies have been adapted for modern viewing. Hamlet, Othello, and Macbeth, for instance, have seen multiple motion picture releases and have captivated generations. In addition, many of Shakespeare's tragedies have become common works on Broadway, further justifying their importance in English literature. Shakespeare was very innovative for his time, particularly in regards to his writing style. In particular, he expanded the dramatic potential of concepts such characterization, plot, and the overall use of language. Until the publishing of his masterpiece Romeo and Juliet, romance had not been viewed as a worthy topic for tragedy. However, Romeo and Juliet, is famous for the manner in which it elicits an emotional response for its readers that is mostly found in tragedies. Shakespeare even altered the use of soliloquies to explore characters' minds and though processes rather than events....

All of which were both innovative and unique for their time. Sonnet 138 is no different in this regard.
Sonnet 138 is arguably one of Shakespeare's most favorable and admired sonnets. The sonnet first makes extensive use of puns within the writing. This sonnet is popularity is primarily a function of its subject material. For one, the sonnet focuses on age and the overall concept of beauty. Shakespeare calls into question, does beauty deteriorate with age? Does age affect the sexual or romantic relationship between two individuals? This sonnet, in a masterful manner, discusses these notions.

In Sonnet 138 Shakespeare, in a straight forward fashion reveals both the nature of his relationship with the "dark lady" and the insecurities he has about growing older. Aspects such as romantic and sexual relationship repeated appear in the sonnet. The poet's fling with his mistress is uncomplicated and practical. The relationship serves as a validation of his "manliness" and "youthfulness" as it relates to romantic endeavors. It also fulfills his most basic need for both sexual pleasure and continual reassurance. He wants to feel worthy and young without having a viable relationship with the "dark lady." In fact, the narrator is often indifferent to the lady, ignoring her own lies and indifferent behaviors. What is also interesting about the sonnet is that the relationship between with the "dark lady" is purely sexual. However, the attraction does not come from physical attraction, but rather the ability…