"But thy eternal summer shall not fade." - Who is the poet? What is meant by 'thy eternal summer'? How does the poet suggest that "thy eternal summer" shall never end? 1+1+4

"But thy eternal summer shall not fade."  - Who is the poet? What is meant by 'thy eternal summer'? How does the poet suggest that "thy eternal summer" shall never end? 1+1+4

Answer: The poet is William Shakespeare.

The expression 'thy eternal summer' refers to the everlasting beauty of the poet's beloved friend. The poet is delighted to glorify the immaculate physical beauty of his friend. And he asserts that this beauty is above earthly death and decay.

The poet sees eternal beauty in his friend. Still he is not satisfied to declare that it is imperishable. He wants to eternalize it in his poetry. He has great faith in the undying appeal of his poetry. He is sure that his poetry will withstand the ravages of time. He likes to glorify his friend in it. As such the eternal beauty or summer of his loving friend inscribed in his poetry will be of eternal life and joy.