Against my soul's pure truth why labour you to make it wander in an unknown field?

Against my soul's pure truth why labour you to make it wander in an unknown field?

In William Shakespeare's works, the theme of inner conflict and self-deception is a recurring motif that is explored in depth. One of the most poignant examples of this theme can be found in Sonnet 101, where the speaker questions why they are trying to deceive themselves and lead their soul astray.

The opening line of the sonnet, "Against my soul's pure truth why labour you," immediately sets the tone for the internal struggle that the speaker is facing. The use of the word "labour" suggests that there is a conscious effort being made to deceive oneself, to go against what one knows to be true deep down in their soul. This conflict between the heart and the mind is a common theme in Shakespeare's works, as characters often grapple with their own inner demons and conflicting desires.

The phrase "to make it wander in an unknown field" further emphasizes the idea of leading one's soul astray, of allowing oneself to be lost in a sea of uncertainty and confusion. The unknown field represents the unfamiliar territory that one finds themselves in when they are not true to themselves, when they allow themselves to be swayed by external influences and false beliefs.

Throughout his works, Shakespeare delves into the complexities of human nature and the struggle to reconcile one's inner truth with the demands of society and the expectations of others. The speaker in Sonnet 101 is grappling with this very dilemma, questioning why they are allowing themselves to be led astray when they know deep down what is right and true.

Ultimately, Shakespeare's exploration of inner conflict and self-deception serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of staying true to oneself and listening to the voice of one's own soul. The speaker's plea to not labor in deceiving oneself serves as a poignant reminder to always strive for authenticity and honesty in the face of adversity and temptation.