When I consider everything that grows
Holds in perfection but a little moment,
That this huge stage presenteth nought but shows
Whereon 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 stay
Sets you most rich in youth before my sight,
Where wasteful Time debateth with Decay
To 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.

The Sonnet explained:

When I contemplate the transient nature of all living things, I am reminded that even the most perfect manifestations of existence endure for but a brief moment. The grand theatre of life presents nothing but mere spectacles, upon which the celestial bodies whisper their cryptic messages. As I observe the parallel between the growth of men and that of plants, both guided and hindered by the same heavens, rejoicing in their youthful vigor only to decline from their prime and fade into obscurity, I am struck by the fragility of this fleeting existence.

In the face of this impermanence, your youth shines most brilliantly in my eyes, as if Time itself engages in a relentless struggle with Decay to transform your days of vitality into tarnished nights. It is a ceaseless battle against the erosion of time, a testament to my enduring love for you. For as time seeks to diminish your radiance, I shall endeavour to rejuvenate you anew, grafting you into perpetuity.