Shakespeare's Sonnet 53

What is your substance, whereof are you made,That millions of strange shadows on you tend?Since every one, hath every one, one shade,And you but one, can every shadow lend.Describe Adonis, and the counterfeitIs poorly imitated after you;On Helen’s cheek all art of beauty set,And you in Grecian tires are painted new:Speak of the spring, and foison of the year,The one doth shadow of your beauty show,The other as your bounty doth appear;And you in every blessed shape we know.In all external grace you have some part,But you like none, none you, for constant heart.

What is your true nature? What are you made of, that millions of unfamiliar reflections seem to follow you? Each person has just one shadow, yet you alone can give every shadow its form. Describe Adonis, and the portrait is only a poor imitation of you. Put every artistic touch of beauty on Helen’s face, and you are painted again in Greek clothing. Speak of spring and the year’s rich harvest: one gives a faint reflection of your beauty, the other seems to show your generosity. We recognize you in every lovely form. You have a share in every kind of outward beauty, but in faithfulness you resemble no one, and no one resembles you.