What is the problem or conflict in Sonnet 130?

The "problem" in Sonnet 130 is that Shakespeare is attempting to write an over-the-top sonnet full of elevated language about a woman who is clearly only ordinary looking -- or perhaps even ugly.  This is evident in his references to her breasts being "dun" (brown or gray) as opposed to white, her breath that "reeks", and her pale cheeks.

In reality, Shakespeare uses this sonnet as a parody of the typical over-inflated love sonnet.  By...

The "problem" in Sonnet 130 is that Shakespeare is attempting to write an over-the-top sonnet full of elevated language about a woman who is clearly only ordinary looking -- or perhaps even ugly.  This is evident in his references to her breasts being "dun" (brown or gray) as opposed to white, her breath that "reeks", and her pale cheeks.

In reality, Shakespeare uses this sonnet as a parody of the typical over-inflated love sonnet.  By writing the sonnet about an ugly woman, he draws attention to the types of descriptions that we are used to seeing in poems of this particular genre.  In the end, however, Shakespeare does conclude by assuring the reader that he loves this woman.  Perhaps this is likewise a commentary on love during his time as well; that a woman need not be perfect (like the subject of most sonnets) in order for a man to love her.