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Poems
Introduction by Patti Smith
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William Blake is one of Britain's most fascinating writers, who, as well as being a groundbreaking poet, is also well known as a painter, engraver, radical and mystic. This collection brings together a selection of Blake's poems, including the poems: "Songs of Innocence" and "Songs of Experience", to give a singular picture of this unique genius.
'Those who control their passions do so because their passions are weak enough to be controlled' - William Blake
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Those who control their passions do so because their passions are weak enough to be controlled — William Blake
Patti Smith introduces her favourite selection of Blake's poems, including the complete poems from Songs of Innocence and of Experience.
William Blake is one of Britain's most fascinating writers, who, as well as being a groundbreaking poet, is also well known as a painter, engraver, radical, and mystic. Although Blake was dismissed as an eccentric by his contemporaries, his powerful and richly symbolic poetry has been a fertile source of inspiration to the many writers and artists who have followed in his footsteps.
Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?
Poems by William Blake is celebrated for its visionary genius and remarkable imagination. Critics like the Independent highlight the brilliance evident throughout the work, while Wordsworth finds Blake's madness intriguing. Samuel Butler Yeats admires the youthful energy in Blake's early verse, and James Joyce appreciates his focus on pure, evocative lines. Tom Paulin praises Blake as a powerful imaginative force.
Book Details
INFORMATION
ISBN: 9780099511632
Publisher: Vintage Publishing
Format: Paperback / softback
Date Published: 01 November 2007
Country: United Kingdom
Imprint: Vintage Classics
Contributors:
- Introduction by Patti Smith
Audience: General / adult
DIMENSIONS
Spine width: 13.0mm
Width: 130.0mm
Height: 198.0mm
Weight: 141g
Pages: 192
About the Author
William Blake was born on 28 November 1757 in London. Instead of being sent to school he was given drawing classes from a young age.When he was fourteen he was apprenticed to the engraver James Basire and he later went on to work as an engraver, illustrator, printer and drawing teacher. In 1779 he became a student at the Royal Academy. In 1782 he married Catherine Boucher who was to become a great support to him throughout his life.His first collection of poems, Poetical Sketches was published in 1793. In 1789 he published Songs of Innocence which was followed by Songs of Experience in 1793. In the early 1800s he wrote his epic prophetic poems Milton and Jerusalem. He developed his own practice of illustrating his poetical works with his own etchings, producing beautifully illuminated editions. Blake's political beliefs were controversial for the times; he supported the French Revolution, condemned slavery and the subjugation of women. His religious beliefs were also idiosyncratic and he reported seeing visions of angels at various points in his life. Blake died, poor and in obscurity on 12 August 1827.
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