Literary Analysis of The Lamb and How Soon Hath Time

The Lamb by William Blake

1. Analysis

Voice and Mood

Voice: The poem appears to be written in the second person, as indicated by the use of "thee." It functions as a dialogue between a child and a lamb, though neither is the poet; the poem is primarily narrated in the third person.

Mood: The tone is one of tenderness, innocence, and purity.

2. Summary

In the first stanza, the child asks the lamb who created it and gave it its form. In the second stanza, the child identifies the lamb's soft and smooth qualities, ultimately linking the child, the lamb, and God through a blessing.

3. Topic

The main theme is pantheism. The poem identifies three entities—God, the lamb, and the child—suggesting there is no essential difference between them. This perspective is rural and stands in opposition to traditional monotheistic views.

4. Parts

• Part A (Verses 1–10): The poet focuses on the innocence and purity of the child in relation to the lamb.
• Part B (Verses 11–20): The poet explores the identity shared by the lamb, the child, and the creator as a unified entity.

How Soon Hath Time by John Milton

1. Analysis

Voice and Mood

Voice: The poem is written in the first person and is not directed at any specific individual.

Mood: The poem conveys a tone of regret and sadness regarding the passage of time, followed by resignation in the final two tercets.

2. Summary

In the first four lines, the poet expresses surprise at the rapid passage of time and a sense of unfulfilled potential. He reflects on his physical appearance versus his inner maturity. Lines 9–12 suggest that speculating on one's achievements is futile because destiny is already written. In the final lines, the poet acknowledges that God has granted His grace.

3. Topic

The central theme is predestination; salvation lies in submitting to the will of God.

4. Parts

• Part A (Verses 1–8): Comprising two quatrains, the poet laments his wasted time and explains that despite his youthful appearance, he is an adult.
• Part B (Verses 9–14): Comprising two tercets, the poet expresses confidence in the divine will and the necessity of submitting to it.