I fear too early, for my mind misgives  (doubt, apprehension)

Some consequence yet hanging in the stars

Shall bitterly begin this fearful date

With this night’s revels, and expire the term

Of a despised life clos’d in my breast

By some vile forfeit of untimely death

But he that hath steerage of my course

Direct my sail! On, lusty gentlemen!

How does Shakespeare use language to convey his ideas about fate in Act 1 Scene 4 of Romeo and Juliet

Statement:                                                                                                                                                            Shakespeare uses Metaphor throughout the play to give a strong suggestion or point across. Romeo is referring himself as a boat or vessel which the fate of where it goes is being controlled by god.

Example:                                                                                                                                                                                 A perfect example of this is in Act 1 Scene 4 where Romeo quotes “some consequence yet hanging in the stars”. Suggesting his fate is all up to god and “he that hath steerage of my course Direct my sail!” meaning his vessel is fully controlled by god and he has no control.

Explanation:                                                                                                                                                                        This proves that Shakespeare is referring to god because god is the only one who could be controlling the ship, Romeo has been given two strong signs that he should enter the party 1: his dream and 2: The chances of the servant randomly choosing Romeo to read out the guest list out of anyone on the street and then inviting him to the party.