Shakespeare's Sonnet 15

When I consider everything that growsHolds in perfection but a little moment,That this huge stage presenteth nought but showsWhereon the stars in secret influence comment;When I perceive that men as plants increase,Cheered and checked even by the self-same sky,Vaunt in their youthful sap, at height decrease,And wear their brave state out of memory;Then the conceit of this inconstant staySets you most rich in youth before my sight,Where wasteful Time debateth with DecayTo change your day of youth to sullied night,And all in war with Time for love of you,As he takes from you, I engraft you new.

I think about how everything that grows stays perfect for only a moment. This vast world is a stage of passing shows, shaped by the stars’ hidden power. I see that people grow like plants. The same sky helps them grow and holds them back. They glory in their youthful strength, then decline at their peak. Their splendid days fade from memory.
This thought of life’s brief stay brings you before my eyes, rich in youth. Wasteful Time plots with Decay to turn your bright young day into a dark, stained night.
For love of you, I fight Time with all my strength. As he takes life from you, I give you new life in my writing.