Question

What do you think is the message of this sonnet? What is Shelley communicating, either directly or indirectly, about the nature of power andthe passage of time?

Answer 1

In cultures with direct communication style (which tend to correlate with task-oriented cultures), such as U.S. Americans, Australians, Germans, and Anglo Canadians, both literal truthfulness as well as efficiency in communication are highly valued and to some extent are a higher priority than personal or political sensitivities, especially in a business setting. Saying "No" or "I don't know" is considered both honest and respectful of the party, since it does not mislead them or lead to "game-playing." Problems are felt to be solved more rapidly if open and frank discussion is encouraged.