The latter is the theme of the sonnet sequence entitled "Kilim."
It is the first known sonnet sequence by a woman writer in England.
The beloved is a major interest of sonnet sequences, but the poetry itself is also an important focus.
For what it's worth, I believe this to be the finest sonnet sequence in the language.
That sonnet sequence was really a remarkable thing for a lad of twenty to write.
During the late 16th century and early 17th century a large number of sonnet sequences were written in England.
The first true sonnet sequence in English, written between 1580 and 1584
During the 19th and 20th centuries, the sonnet sequence returned to favour, although with a greater variety of subject matter.
The extensive book which resulted has the feeling of a contemporary sonnet sequence.