William Blake's Songs of Innocence and Experience: Symbolism and Themes

William Blake's Songs of Innocence and Experience: Two Contrary States of the Human Soul

William Blake's initial intention for Songs of Innocence and of Experience was to create a book for children, dedicated to the theme of innocence. The book's frontispiece, a key visual element, depicts an angel and a man holding a pipe or a flute. Two trees frame a gateway through which the man appears to be entering. Interestingly, he is shown seemingly naked, yet also clothed, a visual paradox. This image serves as a representation of the introductory poem, suggesting that the book illuminates the reader, much like the "Children's faces" mentioned in the text. The contrasting attitudes of the woman and the children, highlighting the adult versus child dynamic, are also notable. The child's journey towards adulthood is implied, with the woman appearing somewhat cold in her demeanor.

A book, in Blake's view, imparts experience. Language itself is presented as the primary tool for gaining this experience. Blake first penned Songs of Innocence, followed by Songs of Experience. The former was intended for children, while the latter addressed adult themes. A core idea within the collection is that rural life represents a paradise, a state of being that anticipates the arrival of industrialization. Throughout Blake's illustrations, a tree consistently appears, symbolizing nature's enduring presence.

"The Ecchoing Green"

In "The Ecchoing Green," an oak tree is prominently featured, potentially symbolizing the village itself. The poem is structured into three stanzas and employs two distinct visual motifs: a woman with her children, and various figures depicted both above and below. Songs of Innocence, the first part of the collection, establishes a clear contrast. We observe a woman with children, a serene landscape, and a fruit-bearing tree. A snake is shown surrounding the tree, creating a stark contrast with a chair and the tree itself, which later transforms into a chair in a symbolic shift. The woman depicted is not necessarily a maternal figure. The book, while offering knowledge, simultaneously creates a separation for children, perhaps from their innocent state.

The poem's narrative is intricately combined with its accompanying images. The poetic text predominates, with the illustrations subtly integrated, sometimes appearing within the tree itself. A particularly striking element is the river, which creates a sense of depth, almost a 3D effect. This significant river, often associated with children, is characterized by its repetitive imagery.

"The Shepherd"

Blake masterfully incorporates geometrical shapes in "The Shepherd," such as the stick representing a line and the circle held by the child in the initial image. His interrelation of characters within the natural world is highly compelling. The poem evokes a sense of divine protection over the sheep, with a shepherd figure prominently featured. The tree in this illustration is distinct, and the twilight setting, with a bird in flight, adds to the atmospheric quality.

"The Lamb"

"The Lamb" portrays a solitary setting, which can be interpreted as a representation of paradise. The trees might symbolize the entrance to this idyllic realm. A river flows, often depicted with children nearby. This landscape resonates with many, drawing parallels to the divine, as God is often portrayed with childlike innocence.

"The Little Black Boy"

The most striking aspect of "The Little Black Boy" is the depiction of a black child teaching religious principles to a white child. The poem emphasizes that despite his dark skin, the black boy possesses a pure, white soul. The black boy's perspective is central, suggesting a spiritual superiority or deeper understanding. The accompanying illustration shows a woman teaching her children, and a subsequent image depicts Christ alongside both a white and a black child.

"The Blossom"

In "The Blossom," a woman narrates the poem. The illustration features a tree with a woman positioned at its top. The tree is interpreted as symbolizing the "flame of the sexual act," while the angels are seen as representations of sperm.

It becomes evident that Blake's Songs of Innocence and of Experience are not entirely innocent. The collection is rich with complex symbolism and numerous sexual connotations, inviting deeper analysis beyond a superficial reading.