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The Diamond Speaks Jane Stewart Analysis

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Stewart’s self-representation, through the poetry sent to Queen Elizabeth I of England, is that of an equal Queen who is also politically minded. Stewart’s poetry to Elizabeth aims to form a political alliance with the Queen of England. In her first poem sent to Elizabeth, ‘The Diamond Speaks’, Stewart conveys this desire: Nor even that I’m pure, whiter than Phoebus’ light, But rather because my form is a heart like unto My Mistress’ heart (but for hardness), that I’m sent to you. (lines) Fleming (year) observes that the poem starts with a series of negatives followed by a ‘qualifying but’ (pg) which conveys the writer’s attention on the ‘form’ rather than other qualities which may be used to describe both Elizabeth and Stewart. The shape of …show more content…

Stewart’s wish to ‘unite’ (line) with Elizabeth runs throughout the poem: ‘For I’d have two great jewels in one setting bound.’ (line) However, it is not Stewart who is speaking. Instead, it is the diamond from the diamond ring sent to Elizabeth (ref. Bell) who speaks. This is highlighted by the title. Stewart, through dislocating her voice from the text, allows for the diamond to speak for her, praising both Queens’ equally whilst also hiding the political intent. By allowing the diamond to speak, Stewart’s attempt of flattery whilst also trying to present herself as an equal Queen is disguised slightly. If Stewart had directly been praising Elizabeth, it may have been considered a sign of weakness on her behalf. In comparison to a later poem Stewart sent to Queen Elizabeth, Stewart maintains her aim to form a relationship with the Queen. ‘Sonnet to Queen Elizabeth I of England’ conveys the need for Stewart to meet with Elizabeth: ‘One thought, that is my torment and delight,/ Ebbs and flows bittersweet within my heart’ (lines). The sonnet follows the Petrarchan form in the use of its ‘tightly structured’ oppositions (Fleming or Hopkins). The opening line conveys the obsessive nature with which Stewart needs to see Elizabeth. The fact that this single thought causes her

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