Quotes Flashcards
Innocence
“On a cloud I saw a child”
Introduction
This line continues the joyful and innocent imagery, symbolising divine inspiration.
Innocence
“Piped a song about a Lamb”
Introduction
A biblical allusion to Jesus Christ (‘the Lamb of God’). The song might also be seen to introduce the ‘innocence’ section of Blake’s collection, symbolising innocence and purity.
Experience
“Tyger Tyger, burning bright,”
The Tyger
The repetition of “Tyger” emphasises the poet’s fascination and awe.
“burning bright” highlights the intensity of the tyger’s presence, its symbolic potency, and conveys Blake’s passionate, fiery view of the world.
Experience
“What immortal hand or eye, Could frame thy fearful symmetry?”
The Tyger
“Immortal hand or eye” refers to a divine creator or creative force.
“Fearful symmetry” is a striking oxymoron which encapsulates the paradoxical nature of the tyger, as something beautiful yet terrifying.
Innocence
“Who made thee?”:
The Lamb
This quote frames the poem as a catechism, a series of questions and answers that teach religious doctrine.
Innocence
“Gave thee clothing of delight”
The Lamb
The lamb’s wool is described as ‘clothing of delight’, indicating its purity and innocence. Note that giving clothes can be seen as a nurturing and protective act.
Innocence
“He became a little child”:
The Lamb
This quote refers to the incarnation of Jesus Christ, a fundamental tenet of Christian theology. Like the lamb, Christ was once innocent and helpless.
Experience
“Babes reduced to misery”
Holy Thursday
The word “babes” emphasizes the innocence and vulnerability of the children.
The phrase “reduced to misery” highlights the grim conditions suffered by the children due to systemic oppression.
Experience
“Fed with cold and usurous hand”
Holy Thursday
“Cold and usurous hand” refers to the lackadaisical and exploitative attitudes of institutions towards the poor.
This metaphor evokes the sense of neglect and exploitation fostered by the societal structures of the time.
Experience
“In a rich and fruitful land…it is a land of poverty”
Holy Thursday
“In a rich and fruitful land…it is a land of poverty”
