Both poems reflect the theme of love directed towards another; Spenser expresses that his love will endure beyond the world, while Shakespeare conveys a desire to be forgotten to spare his love any potential sorrow.
Spenser aims to eternalize his love, even though nature erases his expressions—a notion that could indicate folly. However, the final couplet indicates that nothing is permanent, except for their love.
In contrast, Shakespeare's approach is slightly more somber; he implores his love to not mourn him after he passes. He values the subject of his poem so much that he'd prefer to be forgotten rather than bring them pain. The concluding couplet reinforces this idea by suggesting he wants to prevent his love from facing ridicule due to his grief.
Ultimately, both poems address love and time, albeit with differing perspectives.
The simile draws a parallel between two imagery concepts, allowing the term "what" to link various elements, providing a fresh perspective on the poem. The implication is that time's passing is unavoidable, bringing along the sensation of forgetting. Oblivion accompanies us much like the daily presence of heaven, surfacing in every context.
