Blake: Songs of Innocence: The Little Black Boy Flashcards
Plot summary:
What is the plot summary?
The Little Black Boy is a poem about a young Black boy who is taught by his mother that although his dark skin it will be illuminated by God’s light in the afterlife.
The poem explores themes of racial equality and spiritual beauty, suggesting that in heaven, all people will be equal, regardless of skin colour.
Key Quotes:
What are the key quotes? (THERE ARE 4)
‘I am black, but oh! my soul white’ - shows how the boy wants to be pure, however, the corruption of the world doesnt allow this (they won’t accept him) - juxtaposition - shows how Blake is trying to challenge the ingrained racist assumptions.
‘I am black as if bereaved of light’ - helps to show lack of hope. - the child doesn’t know God’s love. ‘Juxtaposition with darkness being contrasted with light’. White is seen as superior ‘bereaved’ means don’t have.
‘My mother say and kissed me’ - is this reassurance or silencing the black boy - black boy has no agency mum shuts him up ‘kissed me’ - seems like it is end off argument. Mother has agency - nurturing him. ‘kissed him v cruelty of words’
‘Be like him and he shall love me’ - conditional - ends on a tentative note - not one of hope but ideas of losing black culture- he has to become like something else. - has to be white to be loved idea of ‘whit is right’
Form/Structure:
What is the form and structure?
The Little Black Boy is written in rhyming couplets, with a simple structure that reflects innocence and spiritual vision.
It explores a young Black boy’s understanding of his dark skin, using vivid imagery and repetition.
The tone is hopeful, conveying that in the afterlife, racial differences will disappear, and everyone will be equal.
Key Themes:
What are the key themes e.g. racial equality
The poem shows the idea that in the afterlife, all people will be equal in God’s eyes, regardless of race or appearance.
The Black boy believes his dark skin, seen as an earthly difference, will be transformed into spiritual light in heaven.
This theme challenges racial divisions and affirms the possibility of spiritual equality.
Key Themes:
What are the key themes e.g. spiritual transformation
The boy believes his dark skin will shine with God’s light in the afterlife, representing spiritual change.
He imagines that in heaven, he and a fair-skinned child will be united in God’s love, showing that earthly differences and suffering will be overcome by God’s grace.
God’s love is seen to be inspirational and can transform people who wouldn’t be given a chance by society.
Context:
What is the context for this poem?
Written during a time of racial inequality and slavery, Blake’s critiques these injustices while offering a hopeful vision of spiritual equality.
The poem emphasises that all souls are equal before God, focusing on spiritual transformation and divine love.
This reflects Blake’s broader beliefs in rejecting earthly distinctions and promoting a universal connection to the divine.
THIS WAS VERY REVOLUTIONARY FOR BLAKES TIME!!!
Other poems it could link to:
What other poems could this link to?
“The Chimney Sweeper” (Songs of Innocence): Both poems focus on children facing suffering but holding hope for spiritual redemption in the afterlife.
“The Chimney Sweeper” (Songs of Experience): Contrasts with the innocence of Songs of Innocence, showing a more cynical view of societal exploitation.
“The Garden of Love” (Songs of Experience): Critiques religious institutions, much like The Little Black Boy challenges social norms that create division.
“The Tyger” (Songs of Experience): Both poems explore duality (light vs. darkness) and divine creation, though The Tyger is more focused on the mysterious nature of creation.
