Sonnets by William Shakespeare

William Shakespeare’s Sonnets is a collection of 154 poems, first published in 1609, and widely regarded as one of the most significant works in the history of world literature. These masterful compositions, written in the classic form of the English sonnet (14 lines divided into three quatrains and a concluding couplet), explore universal themes of love, beauty, the passage of time, and the immortality of art. They have been translated into Polish numerous times; our edition features the translation by Jan Kasprowicz, originally published in 1922.

The sonnets introduce two enigmatic figures – the "Fair Youth" and the "Dark Lady" – around whom an emotional narrative of tension, passion, and introspection unfolds. These poems portray both exalted feelings and painful struggles, offering a vivid depiction of human relationships that are both intimate and universal.

Shakespeare’s sonnets exemplify his linguistic genius and profound meditation on the human condition, making them a timeless source of inspiration and admiration. The most famous of them, Sonnet 18 (Shall I compare thee to a summer's day?), is a tribute to beauty and the enduring power of love, preserved through art.

The sonnets mark the beginning of the Rambler series of the English poet's works.

This book was typeset in Doves, a digital version of the fonts originally created for the Doves Press (1900–1916), one of the most influential publishing houses of the early 20th century.

Hand-bound with a custom slipcase.