1,99 €
William Blake's 'Songs of Innocence and of Experience' is a collection of poems that explore the contrasting states of human existence through the lens of childhood innocence and adult experience. The poems are characterized by their lyrical and prophetic quality, showcasing Blake's unique blend of spirituality and social criticism. Through vivid imagery and powerful symbolism, Blake delves into themes such as the corrupting influence of society, the loss of innocence, and the struggle for spiritual redemption. The book's structure, with poems appearing in pairs that explore the same subject from different perspectives, adds depth and complexity to the work. 'Songs of Innocence and of Experience' is a seminal work of Romantic poetry that continues to resonate with readers today for its timeless themes and innovative literary techniques. William Blake, a visionary poet and artist, was known for his radical views on religion, politics, and society. His belief in the power of imagination and the importance of individual spiritual liberation influenced his writing and artistic endeavors. 'Songs of Innocence and of Experience' reflects Blake's visionary worldview and his commitment to challenging conventional norms and beliefs. I highly recommend this book to readers interested in exploring the complexities of the human condition and the transformative power of poetry.
Das E-Book können Sie in Legimi-Apps oder einer beliebigen App lesen, die das folgende Format unterstützen:
Songs of Innocence was the first of Blake's illuminated books published in 1789. The poems and artwork were reproduced by copperplate engraving and colored with washes by hand. In 1794 he expanded the book to include Songs of Experience. The spellings, punctuation and capitalizations are those of the original Blake manuscripts.
Introduction
Piping down the valleys wild, Piping songs of pleasant glee, On a cloud I saw a child, And he laughing said to me:
"Pipe a song about a Lamb!" So I piped with merry chear. "Piper, pipe that song again" So I piped, he wept to hear.
"Drop thy pipe, thy happy pipe; Sing thy songs of happy chear- So I sung the same again, While he wept with joy to hear.
"Piper, sit thee down and write In a book, that all may read." So he vanish'd from my sight, And I pluck'd a hollow reed,
And I made a rural pen, And I stain'd the water clear, And I wrote my happy songs Every child may joy to hear.
Plate 4
How sweet is the Shepherd's sweet lot! From the morn to the evening he strays; He shall follows his sheep all the day, And his tongue shall be filled with praise.
For he hears the lamb's innocent call, And he hears the ewe's tender reply; He is watchful while they are in peace,
Plate 5
"I have no name: I am but two days old." What shall I call thee:' "I happy am, Joy is my name." Sweet joy befall thee!
Pretty joy! Sweet joy, but two days old. Sweet joy I call thee: Thou dost smile,
Plate 6