Who is being addressed by the poet of sonnet 29?

Sonnet 29 by William Shakespeare is addressed to a beloved friend. While the specific identity of this friend remains unknown, the sonnet's themes of love, loyalty, and the power of companionship point to a close personal relationship.

Here's why:

* The speaker expresses deep feelings of love and longing: "When, in disgrace with fortune and men's eyes," "And on my low-degree that low regard," "When to the sessions of sweet silent thought"

* The speaker finds solace and joy in their friend's presence: "And in my love's sweet semblance, sweet reward"

* The speaker celebrates their friend's virtues: "And think how one man may get himself release from all these sorrows by obtaining grace"

Therefore, the most likely addressee is a friend who offers the speaker comfort, inspiration, and a sense of belonging.