The Perfect Man: a Recipe Sonnet

Sonnet, originally sonnetto, means a little song. The Italian sonnet, invented by Petrarcho, predates Shakespeare. The Perfect Man is structurally closer to an Italian sonnet: in its 14 lines we have a volta or change at line six. Remember that this is a little song, and the eight or octave has musical significance. The number six also has a relationship with the concept of change or transformation. One idea expressed in 14 lines is viewed in one way then turns at the volta or change to show a different aspect or perspective. This differs from Shakespeare's sonnet structure which has three quatrains and a couplet that presents a twist at the end. A sonnet also has vibrance and intensity as it has a restricted structure yet free content. This sonnet explores the traits of the perfect man, gives us a comical change at the volta, and has a twist at the end.