Sonnet 111 Analysis

The sonnet reflects on the boy’s understanding that he is not the same person inside as presented to the public in his profession, or just in general. The actual “deeds” that he performs were not entirely specified. However, he expresses an immense distaste for his outcome. But ultimately, he does not choose to quit and swallows the troubles in order to continue what he started.The boy perhaps is in a negative feedback loop in what he is doing and it is not benefiting him as much as it should. His actions has led him to some unfortunate events that ruined his reputation. He is apologizing for this outcome, but is not entirely ashamed by it at the same time. He’s coming to terms with it instead of wallowing, in response to someone else’s pity.

In a way, the boy had lost his way when interacting with a crowd that he had to change in order to adapt to. He’s speaking on how it is a pitiful realization, but it’s something that he had to do in order to continue on his journey or rise to success. It is a toxic relationship between him and society, but he will do what he has to do, intake what he must to survive. He is also judging the validity of the person’s judgement, as if there is a proper way to handle his situation. As if to say, “yeah I have done some regrettable things just to get by, but what would you do if you were presented with the same conflict?” His actions and demeanor may not be enough of a factor to accurately judge his overall morals since the broad perspective of things relies on his ideals to reach his full potential. He also mentions how he appreciates the person’s concern for his outcome and that it inspires him to strive for a better future for the both of them, or maybe even all of society.