In the opening lines of Sonnet No. 83 by Edmund Spenser, the poet implores the suitor not to let any impure or lustful desires take hold and disrupt the beloved’s serene and sacred state of mind.

“Let not one sparke of filthy lustfull fyre” The poet advises the suitor to ensure that not even a single spark of impure and lascivious passion should arise within him. He emphasizes the need to keep his intentions pure and untainted by base desires.

“Breake out, that may her sacred peace molest:” Spenser warns the suitor against allowing any such impure feelings to erupt or manifest themselves, as they might disturb the beloved’s sacred peace. The poet views the beloved as a virtuous and spiritually serene person, and he wants the suitor to respect and protect that inner tranquility.

“Ne one light glance of sensuall desyre” The poet continues his advice, cautioning the suitor not to even let a fleeting and superficial gaze of sensual desire come forth. He urges the suitor to be vigilant in controlling his thoughts and actions, ensuring they remain pure and respectful.

“Attempt to work her gentle mindes unrest.” The poet emphasizes that the suitor should make no attempt to cause any unrest or agitation in the gentle and tender mind of the beloved. He highlights the importance of approaching her with utmost sensitivity and care, refraining from any actions or behaviors that could upset her peace of mind.

“But pure affections bred in spotlesse brest,” Here, the poet describes the suitor’s emotions as pure and genuine, arising from a heart that is untainted and virtuous. The suitor’s feelings are depicted as sincere and unblemished by any impurities, further emphasizing the importance of approaching the beloved with authentic emotions.

“And modest thoughts breathd from wel tempred sprites” Spenser highlights that the suitor’s thoughts should be modest, displaying a sense of humility and restraint. These thoughts should be expressed from a well-tempered spirit, suggesting that the suitor’s emotions and intentions are balanced and controlled.

“Goe visit her in her chast bowre of rest,” The poet encourages the suitor to approach the beloved in her chaste and pure abode, where she finds tranquility and peace. This suggests that the suitor should respect the beloved’s personal space and privacy, approaching her in a way that aligns with her values and principles.

“Accompanyde with angelick delightes.” Spenser suggests that when the suitor visits the beloved with pure affections and modest thoughts, he should do so with a sense of angelic delight. This implies that the suitor’s approach should be filled with admiration, reverence, and a sense of spiritual beauty.

“There fill your selfe with those most joyous sights,” The poet advises the suitor to immerse himself in the joyous and delightful aspects of the beloved’s company. He encourages the suitor to seek happiness and contentment by being in the presence of the beloved, cherishing the moments of togetherness that bring joy to his heart.

“The which my selfe could never yet attayne:” Spenser, speaking as the poet, acknowledges that he himself has never experienced the same level of joy and happiness in the presence of the beloved. This implies that the suitor has the opportunity to find a profound connection and fulfillment that the poet has not yet achieved.

“But speake no word to her of these sad plights,” The poet advises the suitor not to express any sad or melancholic feelings to the beloved. He suggests that the suitor should refrain from burdening her with any troubles or sorrows that he might be experiencing. This reinforces the idea that the suitor should approach the beloved with a joyful and positive demeanor.

“Which her too constant stiffenesse doth constrayn.” The poet attributes the beloved’s constant and reserved demeanor to her unwillingness to engage with any sad or gloomy emotions. Her composed and restrained nature might lead her to be distant from expressions of sorrow or distress.

“Onely behold her rare perfection,” Spenser advises the suitor to simply observe and admire the beloved’s extraordinary and exceptional qualities. The phrase “rare perfection” suggests that the beloved possesses unique and remarkable attributes that set her apart from others. The poet encourages the suitor to appreciate and marvel at her beauty, character, and virtues without the need for excessive words or actions.

“And blesse your fortunes fayre election.” The poet further advises the suitor to consider himself fortunate for having chosen the beloved as the object of his affection. The phrase “bless your fortunes” implies that the suitor should feel grateful and fortunate for having the opportunity to be in love with someone as exceptional as the beloved. Spenser uses the term “fayre election” to describe the suitor’s wise and fortunate choice in selecting the beloved as the one to whom he directs his affections.