Meaning: Thom Gunn, an esteemed poet, reflects on his experience as an undergraduate and the lack of proper annotation in the editions of Shakespeare's sonnets that he encountered. In his quote, he specifically mentions the absence of the crucial understanding that the word "will" carries a sexual connotation in Shakespeare's sonnets.

Shakespeare's sonnets are a collection of 154 poems that delve into themes of love, beauty, time, and mortality. Among these, there are a number of sonnets that explore the poet's intense emotional and physical attachment to a young man, often referred to as the "Fair Youth." In these sonnets, the word "will" is indeed used in a context that suggests sexual desire and intimacy.

Gunn's frustration with the lack of proper annotation in the editions of Shakespeare's sonnets is indicative of a broader issue in literary scholarship. The interpretation and understanding of classic literary works are heavily reliant on the quality of annotation and critical analysis provided in the editions available to readers and students. Inaccurate or incomplete annotation can lead to misunderstandings and oversights, as Gunn experienced with the omission of the sexual connotation of "will" in the sonnets.

It is important to acknowledge that the interpretation of Shakespeare's works, particularly the sonnets, has evolved over time. The understanding of the sexual nuances and implications within the sonnets has been a subject of scholarly debate and analysis. While earlier editions and annotations may have overlooked or downplayed the sexual aspects of the sonnets, contemporary scholarship has increasingly recognized and examined these elements.

In recent years, there has been a concerted effort to provide more comprehensive and accurate annotations in editions of classic literary works. This includes a focus on contextualizing language, themes, and cultural references that may be unfamiliar to modern readers. By doing so, scholars and editors aim to enrich the reading experience and facilitate a deeper understanding of the texts.

Gunn's own experience with poorly annotated editions of Shakespeare's sonnets highlights the significance of thorough and meticulous scholarship in presenting literary works to readers. The absence of crucial information, such as the sexual connotations of "will" in the sonnets, can significantly impact the interpretation and appreciation of the poetry. As such, it underscores the importance of scholarly rigor and attention to detail in the field of literary annotation and edition production.

In conclusion, Thom Gunn's reflection on the inadequacy of the annotations in the editions of Shakespeare's sonnets serves as a reminder of the critical role that annotation plays in shaping our understanding of classic literary works. The quote prompts us to consider the impact of incomplete or inaccurate annotations on our interpretation of texts and underscores the ongoing need for thorough and comprehensive scholarship in literary edition production. It also highlights the evolving nature of literary interpretation and the importance of staying attuned to new scholarly insights and perspectives.