The Worm: Exploring the Symbolism of Repression and Fallenness in William Blake's Poetry

The Worm: Symbolism of Repression and Fallenness in William Blake's Poetry

Metaphorical Meanings of 'Worm'

• Death and decay
• Snake or serpent (alluding to the Fall of humankind)
• Christian teaching of the devil's unseen presence
• Phallic associations, representing the impact of the Fall on sexual ecstasy

'Flies in the Night' and 'Howling Storm'

* Night symbolizes the time when fears and fantasies are most active. * 'Howling storm' suggests ungovernable turmoil and passion.

'Has Found Out'

* May echo Psalms 90:8, referring to the exposure of 'secret sins.'

'Crimson'

* Denotes passion, blood, shame, and sin in the Old Testament. * Suggests that ideas of shame, sin, and secrecy have reached the innermost part of the person, infecting their capacity for joy.

Effects of 'Fallenness' on Repression

* Blake believed inhibitions lie within the mind, not external factors. * Society's fears and guilt become rules and laws, leading to repression and prohibition. * Love becomes associated with secrecy and destructive forces.

Effects of the Fall on Relationships

* Fallen selfhood leads to jealousy and denial of pleasures to others. * Love becomes 'dark' and 'secret.' * Control over others masquerades as affection, making love devouring and destructive.