William Blake was an English poet, printmaker, and painter whose works are now considered among the most influential and creative pieces to come out of the Romantic era. But during his life, Blake was largely overlooked by his contemporaries, many of whom viewed him as somewhat of a madman and a contrarian. It was only after his passing in the early 19th century that people finally came to understand his genius and began to appreciate his monumental impact on the worlds of poetry and visual arts.
Blake incorporated themes of mysticism and spirituality into his paintings and poems, establishing a unique artistic vision that defied conformity. He was also heavily influenced by the French and American Revolutions — both of which took place during his lifetime — and he often used his artistic voice to speak out against tyranny and oppression.
Some of Blake’s most popular poems are “The Lamb,” “The Tyger,” and “London.” He also penned the epic poem Milton, which contains the hymn “Jerusalem.” It’s been said that King George V preferred this hymn as an alternative to the national anthem of the United Kingdom, “God Save the King.”
Whether you’re familiar with William Blake or are just learning about him for the first time, his eloquent words are bound to have a profound impact on your life. Here are 14 beautifully poetic quotes from the thoughtful and impassioned mind of this great English poet.
If the doors of perception were cleansed, everything would appear to man as it is: infinite.“The Marriage of Heaven and Hell”
No bird soars too high if he soars with his own wings.“Proverbs of Hell”
You never know what is enough unless you know what is more than enough.“Proverbs of Hell”
A truth that’s told with bad intent / Beats all the lies you can invent.“Auguries of Innocence”
I question not my corporeal eye any more than I would question a window concerning a sight. I look through it, and not with it.“A Vision of the Last Judgment”
Those who restrain desire do so because theirs is weak enough to be restrained.“The Marriage of Heaven and Hell”
What is now proved was once only imagined.“The Marriage of Heaven and Hell”
The man who never alters his opinion is like standing water, and breeds reptiles of the mind.“The Marriage of Heaven and Hell”
Without contraries there is no progression. Attraction and repulsion, reason and energy, love and hate are necessary to human existence.“The Argument”
Eternity is in love with the productions of time.“Proverbs of Hell”
To see a world in a grain of sand / And a heaven in a wild flower, / Hold infinity in the palm of your hand / And eternity in an hour.“Auguries of Innocence”
It is easier to forgive an enemy than to forgive a friend.“Jerusalem: The Emanation of the Giant Albion”
The true method of knowledge is experiment.“All Religions Are One”
He who binds to himself a joy / Does the wingèd life destroy; / But he who kisses the joy as it flies / Lives in eternity’s sunrise.”Several Questions Answered”
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