Discuss John Milton’s “On His Blindness” as a Sonnet, Focusing on its Central Message.
On His Blindness is a notable literary work by John Milton. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, to various questions of On His Blindness.
Answer
Discuss John Milton’s “On His Blindness” as a sonnet, focusing on its central message.
A sonnet is a one-stanza, 14-line poem, written in iambic pentameter. The word sonnet is derived from the Italian word sonetto, meaning “a little sound or song.” “On His Blindness” (1674) is a deeply personal sonnet by the English poet and civil servant John Milton (1608-1674). It reflects his struggle with blindness and his search for purpose in serving God. Here is a breakdown of this Italian sonnet highlighting its primal message.
Structure of the Sonnet: This poem follows the structure of a Petrarchan (Italian) sonnet. Its 14 lines are divided into an octave (first eight lines) and a sestet (last six lines). The rhyme scheme for the octave is ABBAABBA, and for the sestet, it is CDECDE. This structure helps Milton present his inner conflict in the octave and a resolution in the sestet. This structure allows the sonnet to move from worry to peace.
Theme: The Petrarchan sonnet characteristically treats its theme in two parts. The first eight lines are called the octave. They introduce a problem, pose a question, or express emotional tension. The final six lines are known as the sestet. These lines resolve the problem, answer the question, or release the tension.
“On His Blindness” covers this theme. The primal theme of this poem is faith and acceptance in the face of personal limitations. Milton explores his worries about being unable to serve God due to his blindness. By the end, he finds peace in the understanding that God values patience and faith, not works. It is evident in the following quotation.
God doth not need
Either man’s work or his own gifts; who best
Bear his mild yoke, they serve him best….
Language and Word Choice: Milton’s word choices reflect his deep religious devotion and his internal struggle. Words like “Talent” references the biblical Parable of the Talents. It suggests a duty to use his gifts for God. The use of “patience” as a personified inner voice shows Milton’s shift from doubt to faith. On the other hand, “mild yoke” represents his acceptance of God’s will.
Tone and Mood: In an Italian sonnet, the tone is contemplative, and the mood is often reflective or bittersweet. The tone of “Sonnet 19” shifts from despair to acceptance. Milton’s mood is troubled at first. He feels inadequate because of his blindness. Then, his tone shifts to one of peace. He realizes that patience and faith are valuable ways to serve God.
Central Message: The central message of the poem is that true service to God doesn’t always require active work. Milton realizes that even in his blindness, he can still serve God. Faith and patience are valuable. God values quiet acceptance and trust. Waiting patiently without complaint is meaningful and honorable. It shows deep devotion, just like any action or labor. Here is an excerpt to support the point.
Doth God exact day-labour, light denied?”
I fondly ask. But patience, to prevent
That murmur, soon replies, “God doth not need
Either man’s work or his own gifts;
In termination, Milton’s “On His Blindness” is a genuine Petrarchan sonnet. The poet uses the sonnet form to explore his struggles with faith and purpose. By examining his limitations, he understands that faithful service to God can be found in patience and trust.