Catherine Tate embodies a pretentious, annoying teenager who is seemingly not fond of authoritarian figures or English. Yet, could she be read as the subject of poetry itself? While there are English fanatics, in this case David Tennant, who aim to simplify and transmit the beauty of poetry, to many poetry is nothing more than a babbling tale of unnecessary (and at times dishonorable) complexeties. Sonneet 130 itself brings up some complex and controversial themes around sex and love. He is obsessed with his lover, but he is seemingly degrading her? (Lines 9-10) The poem is about how he loves her, but it is also making a statement against societial norms? (Lines 5-6, 14). Line 14 specifically seems to be a jab at society and even poetry saying “As any she, belied with false compare”, referencing the oh-so-popular comparisons and symbols that dominate culture.
It is ironic that in this sketch Tate personifies the babbling tale of poetry by talking back, being disrespectful, and simply unbearable yet she recites Sonnet 130 perfectly like any other Shakespeare nerd. I believe this is a fun jab at literature and poetry too, like holding up a mirror to all the english fanatics. Is this what we look like as we go on and on about simple things in the tiresome form of and sonnets and ironic comparisons? This sketch enhances Sonnet 130 because it simplifies it in a fun way. The audience isn’t cracking their brains open trying to understand what in the world Shakespeare is on about, instead we can sit back and enjoy the ruckus while the english teacher gets a taste of his own medicine.
Darah Carrillo Vargas
Introduction to Poetry 
Nov 04, 2021 @ 21:36:52
One main thing that I found missing from this week’s blog post was the textual evidence to refer back to when discussing your analysis. Although your comments on the skit were very interesting and one to think about, it seemed like you touched on only the broad and over arching idea. I wish it referred back to the sonnet’s texts, or any specific line you felt significant and backed up your reasoning. Once you have evidence, your blog will definitely flow better and will be as if all your comments came from a certain point that you were trying to make!
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Nov 06, 2021 @ 00:19:12
I really liked this blog post and the direction you took the comparison between the video and the poem itself. I find it interesting how you likened the student to the spirit of poetry, which was different than what I’ve seen discussed in class. I think if you elaborated more on this parallel, your argument could be more solid, maybe such as the structure or the poem itself. Otherwise, good job!
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Nov 06, 2021 @ 03:53:32
I believe that including textual evidence will help strengthen your idea of the post. I do love how you bring light on the possibilities of this being a mockery on “English fanatics.”
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