Blake: Songs of Experience: The Angel: Flashcards
Plot summary:
What is the plot summary?
The poem shows a young girl who dreams of an angel, who tells her that she must leave her innocence and face the hardships of life.
The poem explores the loss of innocence and the inevitable transition to experience.
Quotes:
Key Quotes (CLUE: There are 2)
‘And hid from him my hearts delight’ - ironic - no joy - alliteration - Blake argues that you shouldn’t have to hide true emotions. Love should be expressed.
‘Time of youth was fled’ - Helps to show that life is limited - don’t waste it.
Form and Structure:
What is the form/structure like?
The poem is written in three four-line stanzas with an ABAB rhyme scheme.
The simple, steady structure contrasts with the serious theme of the loss of innocence and the inevitable transition to experience.
Themes:
Key themes e.g. purity v corruption
The contrast between the pure innocence of the girl and the world’s corrupting experiences reflects Blake’s broader theme of the loss of purity in the face of societal pressures and reality.
Context:
What is the context of Blake?
Blake criticises the loss of innocence and the harsh realities of adulthood.
Written during a time of social and political change, the poem contrasts childhood purity with the challenges of life, symbolising the transition from innocence to experience.
Blake explores how societal pressures and institutions corrupt innocence, a central theme in his work.
Other poems it could link to:
What other poems could it link to?
“The Garden of Love” (SOE) – Deals with the loss of innocence and the corruption of society.
“The Tyger” (SOE) – Reflects on the destructive side of experience and the loss of purity.
