The sonnet has been used as a poetic style since at least the 1500's; they are a varied and versatile style. However, they tend to have a regimented fourteen line structure. Sonnets can be viewed as a box-like or square appearance. Foster believes that one particular reason the sonnet should be studied and appreciated is the structure and how it impacts the effect of the poem. He says, "Sonnets are like that, short poems that take far more time, because everything has to be perfect, than long ones." Foster also feels a person should first read the poem to enjoy or appreciate it, in lieu of getting bogged down about structure and rhythmic form. After the structure of a sonnet allows for a person to break things down, Whether by lines, sentences, connected or contrasted meanings, or even looking at individual words.
I cannot say I have a lot of experience with sonnets; in fact, I tend to find them intimidating. Especially along the lines of Shakespeare, which can be difficult to read. I know I am not alone when I stumble upon reading it, Shakespeare was of course writing in "old English," he was in a sense of a pioneer in English language and grammar. I suppose, he would most likely to stumble himself if reading more contemporary writing of today.
I personally would choose Elizabeth Barrett Browning's, "How Do I Love Thee?" I believe it is more than simply a romantic or passionate "love poem." I believe it shows a deep, sincere almost "God-like" love and devotion for someone. In a time when I feel many people are hasty or lackadaisical with their emotion.
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