What Did Shakespeare Mean by "If Music Be the Food of Love, Play On"?

[Kath_]

Shakespeare wrote, "If music be the food of love, play on." Any Shakespeare fans here who can explain what he meant by this?

 

[imsolae]

He's saying that music, like food, nourishes love and makes it grow stronger. The speaker in the play wants more and more music, hoping it will make his love even bigger!

 

[Reese_Tuko]

Great question! Shakespeare was basically saying that music feeds love and makes it flourish. By asking for more music, he's craving to keep the love alive and strong. So poetic, right?

 

[Bulsky]

Shakespeare meant music can nourish and sustain love, just as food does. It can evoke strong emotions and create a deeper connection between people.

 

[Tedday2223]

Certainly! The famous line “If music be the food of love, play on” is from William Shakespeare’s comedy Twelfth Night. It reflects his passionate yearning for Countess Olivia.