The Phoenix and the Turtle

"The Phoenix and the Turtle" by William Shakespeare is an allegorical poem published in 1601. This enigmatic 67-line work describes a funeral for two birds—the mythological phoenix and the mortal turtle dove—whose perfect, transcendent love defied all logic. Invited mourners gather to lament lovers who achieved complete unity, leaving no heirs. The poem explores truth, beauty, and ideal devotion through mysterious symbolism that has sparked countless conflicting interpretations about its meaning and possible historical inspirations.

The Phoenix and the Turtle, by William Shakespeare. Republished by OpenStories from Project Gutenberg eBook #1525.