ON MY BLINDNESS (Kaleidoscope)

In “Sonnet 16” John Milton meditates on the devastating effect blindness has had on his life and work. He equates his lost vision with “light spent,” and laments not the handicap in and of itself, but the limitations it imposes on his work as a poet.

When I consider how my light is spent
Ere half my days in this dark world and wide
And that one talent which is death to hide
Lodged with me useless, though my soul more bent
To serve therewith my Maker, and present
My true account, lest he returning chide;
"Doth God exact day labor, 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.Who best
Bear his mild yoke, they serve him best. His state
Is kingly; thousands at his bidding speed,.
And post o'er land and ocean without rest;
They also serve who only stand and wait.

1. light is spent: This clause presents a double meaning:
(a) how I spend my days, (b) his lost vision.

2. Ere half my days: Before half my life is over. Milton was completely blind by 1652, the year he turned 44.

3. Line three the word talent has a biblical reference meaning to say talent and hard work will be rewarded but if talents are hidden and not used we may not be rewarded.

4. Useless- Unused.

5. therewith: By that means, by that talent he is supposed to serve the lord.

6. account: Record of accomplishment; worth

7. exact: Demand, require

8. fondly: Foolishly, unwisely .Patience: Milton personifies patience, having it speak.

9. God is sufficient unto Himself. He requires nothing outside of Himself to exist and be happy.

10. but who he is best – the one who serves God.

11. yoke: Burden, workload.

12. ‘his state is kingly’ explains the greatness of God.

13. post: Travel. Line 12 refers to service to the command of God.

14. They also serve who only stand and wait" Possible meaning: We all have a place in this world and we all perform a function, regardless of our ability or disability.

15. What according to Milton is the best way of serving God?(this is the central theme of the poem)
Milton can also serve God by being patient and also by accepting any difficulties he may experience. Milton is saying that those who "bear his mild yoke" and who accept whatever God has in store should do so with dignity, which will prove their commitment and loyalty to God, resulting in an agreeable way to serve God.