William Blake — Introduction (from Songs of Innocence)

William Blake (1757–1827) was an English poet, artist, and printmaker who is considered one of the most important figures of the Romantic era. Blake’s work was characterized by a deep interest in spirituality and mysticism, as well as a belief in the power of imagination and creativity.

“Introduction” is a poem from Blake’s collection “Songs of Innocence,” which was first published in 1789. The poem serves as an introduction to the collection, and establishes many of the themes and motifs that will be explored in the subsequent poems. The poem’s speaker describes a visionary experience in which he encounters a child who asks him to “pipe a song about a lamb.” The poem’s language is simple and lyrical, conveying a sense of innocence and wonder.

Like much of Blake’s work, “Introduction” is characterized by its visionary quality and its interest in exploring the power of the human imagination. The poem celebrates the innocence and wonder of childhood, while also hinting at the darker aspects of human experience that will be explored in the subsequent poems of the collection. #literature #poetry