ssful composition. Through language, and the reference of different age and social groups, Shakespeare creates imagery that is essential to the context of the poem. In addition, the ideas presented allow the reader to relate to the theme of the poem, which urges all to encounter death without having to fear it. For example, the powerful emotions that are granted by the poem may have been inspired by Shakespeare’s personal experiences, such as seeing the fear in a person’s eyes when they knew they were nearing death. Therefore, it is important that one does not become absorbed with melancholy or despair, but instead realizes that one should, “Fear no more, … [for we] must [all] come to dust.”Vidal 5Fear no more Fear no more the heat o’ the sun,Nor the furious winter’s rages;Thou thy worldly task hast done, Home art gone, and ta’en thy wages.Golden lads and girls all must,As chimney-sweepers, come to dust.Fear no more the frown o’ the great;Thou art past the tyrant’s stroke;Care no more to clothe and eat;To thee the reed is as the oak.The scepter, learning, physic, must All follow this, and come to dust.Fear no more the lightning-flash,Nor the all-dreaded thunder-stone;Fear not slander, censure rash;Thou hast finished joy and moan.All lovers young, all lovers must Consign to thee, and come to dust.William Shakespeare (1564-1616)...
