New Releases by William Blake

Songs of Innocence and of Experience is a seminal collection of poetry by William Blake that captures the duality of the human experience through two contrasting visions: innocence and experience. Published in two parts, the poems explore themes of childhood, spirituality, and the loss of innocence amidst a rapidly industrializing society. Blake''s unique perspective encourages readers to reflect on the complexities of human existence and the profound impacts of societal norms. The first section, Songs of Innocence, celebrates the purity and joy of childhood, portraying a world filled with wonder and divine presence. Through simple yet profound verses, Blake emphasizes themes of harmony, connection to nature, and the beauty of the untainted soul. Conversely, the second section, Songs of Experience, presents a more somber and critical view of life filled with disillusionment, moral ambiguity, and the harsh realities of adult life. It engages with themes of oppression, social injustice, and the loss of that initial innocence. Blake’s innovative use of imagery and symbolism, combined with his illustrated designs, offers a rich visual and literary experience that confronts readers with the tensions between innocence and experience. Songs of Innocence and of Experience remains a vital exploration of the human condition and a cornerstone of Romantic literature that resonates through generations, inviting contemplation on the complexities we face as we navigate our lives.

In "Jerusalem," William Blake embarks on an ambitious exploration of spiritual, social, and political themes, intricately weaving his profound visions into a complex tapestry of poetry and art. Written during the late 18th century, this epic poem serves as a culmination of Blake''s lifelong quest for a visionary perspective that transcends the material world. Incorporating a unique blend of mystical allegory and rich imagery, Blake critiques the urbanization and industrialization of his time, juxtaposing the ideal of a spiritual Jerusalem with the harsh realities of contemporary society. The poem''s distinctive style, characterized by rhythmic meter and lyrical intensity, positions it firmly within the Romantic movement, while also challenging the boundaries of traditional poetry through its innovative use of visual art and illuminated printing. William Blake, an enigmatic figure considered both a poet and a painter, drew from his own experiences of spiritual revelation and historical tumult to craft "Jerusalem." Living through the tumultuous shifts of the Industrial Revolution, Blake''s work often reflects his opposition to institutional religion and societal conventions. His visionary experiences and deep-seated belief in the transformative power of creativity shaped his perspective, motivating him to depict a world where spiritual awakening and social justice coexist harmoniously. For readers seeking an intellectually stimulating and aesthetically enriching experience, "Jerusalem" offers a profound meditation on personal and collective redemption. Blake''s unique synthesis of poetry and visual art invites contemplation, making this work essential reading for those interested in the intersections of spirituality, politics, and the human condition. The poem''s enduring relevance resonates today, encouraging readers to reflect upon their own roles in shaping a ''new Jerusalem'' in the contemporary landscape.

William Blake''s "Milton" is a profound exploration of the interplay between myth, imagination, and spiritual awakening. Written in a distinctively visionary style, this long poem articulates Blake''s unique cosmology, wherein the figure of John Milton serves as both a historical figure and a mythic archetype. Through his intricate use of symbols and allegory, Blake delves into themes of divine inspiration, the nature of the human soul, and the pursuit of artistic truth, positioning Milton as a prophet and his works as vehicles of profound knowledge and enlightenment. The poem, comprising a rich tapestry of allegorical prose and lyrical verses, reflects Blake''s belief in the power of creativity to transcend earthly limitations and connect with the divine. William Blake (1757-1827), a visionary poet and artist, was deeply influenced by both the Enlightenment and the Romantic movement. His radical ideas on art, sexuality, and religion were often considered ahead of his time, which shaped his literary voice. Blake''s admiration for Milton, along with his aspiration to express his own mythos, catalyzed the writing of "Milton." This work encapsulates Blake''s conviction that art should convey deep spiritual truths, often intertwining his personal insights with broader philosophical questions. "Milton" is an essential read for those interested in understanding the intersection of poetry, spirituality, and the creative impulse. Through Blake''s visionary lens, readers will uncover a profound meditation on the nature of artistic creation and the spiritual journey. This book is not merely a poetic endeavor; it is an invitation to explore the infinite possibilities of the human imagination.

William Blake''s adaptation of ''The Book of Job'' is a profound reimagining of the biblical narrative, intermingling poetic lyricism with vibrant illustrations. This work encapsulates the existential struggle of humanity against suffering and divine justice while employing Blake''s characteristic symbolic language. The fusion of text and image invites readers to explore the depths of Job''s trials through a spiritual lens, urging a contemplative approach to life''s uncertainties. The visual brilliance of the illustrations complements the scriptural text, offering a multi-dimensional exploration of faith, despair, and resilience, set against the backdrop of Blake''s unique philosophical and religious views. Blake, a visionary poet, artist, and engraver of the 18th century, was deeply influenced by the theological and political upheaval of his time. His distinct mysticism and rebellion against institutional Christianity shaped his interpretation of biblical stories, positioning him as a critical figure in Romantic literature. Driven by his fascination with morality, spirituality, and the human condition, Blake''s work serves as a manifestation of his beliefs and artistic vision, reflecting his quest for truth amid societal constraints. Readers are encouraged to delve into this masterful integration of text and illustration, as Blake''s ''The Book of Job'' speaks to the timeless struggle of faith and human suffering. This edition, adorned with all original illustrations, not only serves as an artistic treasure but also resonates deeply with those seeking philosophical insights and spiritual understanding.

In "The Complete Illuminated Books of William Blake," the reader is invited into a transcendent realm where poetry and visual art coalesce in a unique and revolutionary manner. Blake''s work embodies the spirit of Romanticism, challenging the rigid confines of Neoclassical aesthetics by infusing his texts with mystical and visionary elements. Each illuminated page showcases his intricate engravings, which complement the veiled meanings embedded in his poetry. Organized thematically and chronologically, this collection includes his iconic works such as "Songs of Innocence and of Experience" and "The Marriage of Heaven and Hell," offering insights into the dualities of existence and the nature of the human soul amidst the tumult of societal change in late 18th-century England. William Blake was not only a poet but also a painter, printmaker, and engraver, whose life (1757-1827) was marked by a profound sense of spiritual and social rebellion. His dissociation from the mainstream art and literary circles of his time, coupled with his deep engagement with mysticism and biblical themes, profoundly influenced his creative process. Blake''s vision was fueled by his belief in the transformative power of art and his quest to convey universal truths through his imaginative symbolism. This masterful collection is essential for any reader seeking to grasp the depth of Blake''Äôs artistic genius and philosophical inquiry. Whether you are a long-time admirer of Blake''s work or encountering it for the first time, this unabridged edition, complete with original illustrations, serves as an invaluable resource for understanding the beauty and complexity of his legacy.

In "Milton A Poem," William Blake presents a profound exploration of the dualities of existence—spirit and matter, imagination and reason—through a rich tapestry of poetic narrative interwoven with his stunning, original illustrations. Written in the context of the Romantic movement, this illuminated manuscript delves into the life and works of John Milton, particularly "Paradise Lost," serving as both tribute and critique. Blake''s visionary style employs symbolic diction and intricate imagery, inviting readers to navigate the depths of his philosophical ideas while engaging with his striking visual artistry that transforms the text into an immersive experience. William Blake (1757-1827) was a visionary artist and poet who navigated the tensions of his time, witnessing the Industrial Revolution''s impact on both society and the arts. His own tumultuous upbringing and fervent interest in mysticism and spirituality profoundly influenced his works, including "Milton A Poem," which reflects his quest for understanding the divine and the struggle between the rational mind and the creative spirit. Blake''s unique position as both poet and artist enabled him to conceive a multi-dimensional narrative that challenges the prevailing literary norms of his era. This seminal work is a must-read for enthusiasts of Romantic literature and art alike. "Milton A Poem" not only provides insight into Blake''s artistic vision but also invites the reader to engage with the transformative power of imagination and inspiration. Its intricate interplay of text and illustration enriches our understanding of both Blake and Milton, making this immersive masterpiece an essential addition to any literary collection.

William Blake''s *Illustrations of The Book of Job* is a masterful artistic and literary interpretation of the ancient biblical story, intertwining profound spiritual inquiry with striking visual artistry. Composed in the late 18th century, these illustrations serve as a reflection of Blake''s unique romantic style, characterized by vivid imagery and emotional depth. Blake''s visual interpretations encapsulate the essence of Job''s trials, capturing themes of suffering, faith, and divine justice through a blend of symbolism and imagination, bridging the gap between literature and art in a manner that exemplifies the pivotal artistic movements of his time. Blake, a visionary poet, painter, and printmaker, was deeply influenced by the spiritual and social turmoil of his era. His interest in the profound questions of existence, morality, and the nature of divinity inform his work, making *The Book of Job* a fitting subject for his explorations. Blake''s radical views on religion, combined with his personal experiences of hardship, illuminated his interpretations of Job''s plight, reflecting a quest for understanding and reconciliation with the divine amidst adversity. This exquisite collection is essential for readers seeking to explore the intersections of literature, theology, and visual art. Blake''s innovative approach invites us to engage with the complexities of faith and suffering in a profoundly personal manner. *Illustrations of The Book of Job* offers a transformative experience, profoundly relevant to both contemporary discourse and timeless spiritual inquiry.

William Blake''s ''Songs of Innocence and of Experience'' is a profound exploration of the duality of human existence, meticulously structured in two contrasting sections that portray the innocent and the experienced facets of life. Utilizing a distinctive blend of lyrical poetry and stunning illustrations, Blake employs simple yet evocative language to convey deeper philosophical themes. The collection delves into the innocence of childhood, the joys of nature, and, conversely, the complexities and harsh realities of adulthood, serving as a reflection on the social injustices of the 18th century amidst the backdrop of the Industrial Revolution and Romantic literary movements. Blake, a visionary poet, artist, and engraver, was deeply influenced by his radical views on religion, society, and the human condition. His formative experiences in London, coupled with an affinity for mysticism and a desire to challenge conventional societal norms, shaped his creative output. Blake''s unique perspective and unwavering commitment to his beliefs allowed him to craft a work that transcends time, addressing universal themes relevant to all generations. This seminal collection is a must-read for anyone interested in the interplay of innocence and experience, as well as the emotional and social intricacies of human life. Blake''s ability to articulate profound truths through accessible verse invites readers to reflect on their own journeys, making this not just a literary work, but a transformative experience.

Songs of Innocence and of Experience[1] is a collection of illustrated poems by William Blake. It appeared in two phases: a few first copies were printed and illuminated by Blake himself in 1789.

William Blake was born in 1757 in London. He spent his childhood in Dublin and then moved to Switzerland. Initially unappreciated and considered insane, William Blake is now known as one of the most inspiring and influential English artists of all times. Songs of Innocence and Songs of Experience were originally produced as engraved and illuminated books, colored by the author himself. After publishing Songs of Innocence, William Blake wrote a new set of songs (Songs of Experience), which in a harsh but satirical way responded to those collected in his first work. Songs of innocence and experience contrast the innocent and idyllic childhood existence with the repression and corruption of an adult environment. In his work, Blake shares his individual political and spiritual believes. He touches on difficult topics such as poverty, children abuse and repressive nature of church and skillfully paints a portrait of a complex political and social landscape of his era.

In 1789, William Blake wrote and illuminate to us with this beautiful book song of innocence and of experience. His writing illustrates human behaviors and experiences through " the two contrary states of the human soul". These beautiful and soulful poems where written frame of reference to children.

Differentiated book- It has a historical context with research of the timeSongs of Innocence and Experience (Songs of Innocence and of Experience) is a collection of romanticism poems by English writer William Blake (1757-1827), published in 1794.The anthology groups in a single volume some of William Blake''s most prominent poems published previously in two other collections: Songs of Innocence and Songs of Experience.For William Blake, the concepts of Innocence and Experience are related to two states of consciousness but also of perception of reality: the first, innocence, refers us to a mythical, biblical past, where the human being lived in perfect harmony with nature; the second, experience, refers to the fall of man who leaves the idyllic state of Paradise to plunge into the waters of knowledge.In this sense, experience is not something that is obtained, but rather a consequence of the loss of innocence. In this way, William Blake classifies the levels of perception of the human being, and in a manner similar to the philosophy of Romanticism.Innocence is the original state of humanity, but a state that is not immune to society, that is, to experience, the fallen world, which is often represented through institutions. And just as innocence is described as a state of purity, experience is marked by loss, melancholy, fear, and inhibition.

William Blake (28 November 1757 - 12 August 1827) was an English poet, painter, and printmaker. Largely unrecognised during his lifetime, Blake is now considered a seminal figure in the history of the poetry and visual arts of the Romantic Age. What he called his prophetic works were said by 20th-century critic Northrop Frye to form "what is in proportion to its merits the least read body of poetry in the English language."His visual artistry led 21st-century critic Jonathan Jones to proclaim him "far and away the greatest artist Britain has ever produced." In 2002, Blake was placed at number 38 in the BBC''s poll of the 100 Greatest Britons. Although he lived in London his entire life (except for three years spent in Felpham), he produced a diverse and symbolically rich oeuvre, which embraced the imagination as "the body of God"or "human existence itself." Although Blake was considered mad by contemporaries for his idiosyncratic views, he is held in high regard by later critics for his expressiveness and creativity, and for the philosophical and mystical undercurrents within his work. His paintings and poetry have been characterised as part of the Romantic movement and as "Pre-Romantic." Reverent of the Bible but hostile to the Church of England (indeed, to almost all forms of organised religion), Blake was influenced by the ideals and ambitions of the French and American Revolutions. Though later he rejected many of these political beliefs, he maintained an amiable relationship with the political activist Thomas Paine; he was also influenced by thinkers such as Emanuel Swedenborg.Despite these known influences, the singularity of Blake''s work makes him difficult to classify. The 19th-century scholar William Rossetti characterised him as a "glorious luminary," and "a man not forestalled by predecessors, nor to be classed with contemporaries, nor to be replaced by known or readily surmisable successors."

''How can the bird that is born for joy / Sit in a cage and sing?'' A selection of Blake''s most haunting verse, including ''The Songs of Innocence and Experience''. One of 46 new books in the bestselling Little Black Classics series, to celebrate the first ever Penguin Classic in 1946. Each book gives readers a taste of the Classics'' huge range and diversity, with works from around the world and across the centuries - including fables, decadence, heartbreak, tall tales, satire, ghosts, battles and elephants.

In this book, a collection of poems William Blake, (November 28, 1757 - August 12, 1827) - English poet and artist.William Blake was a 19th century writer and artist who is regarded as a seminal figure of the Romantic Age. His writings have influenced countless writers and artists through the ages, and he has been deemed both a major poet and an original thinker.

''Every page is a window open in Heaven ... interwoven designs companion the poems, and gold and yellow tints diffuse themselves over the page like summer clouds. The poems [of Song of Innocence] are the morning song of Blake''s genius.'' - W.B. Yeats''Blake sang of the ideal world, of the truth of the intellect, and of the divinity of imagination ... The only writer to have written songs for children with the soul of a child ... he holds, in my view, a unique position because he unites intellectual sharpness with mystic sentiment.'' - James JoyceSong of Innocence and of Experience is a rare and wonderful book, its seeming simplicity belying its visionary wisdom. Internationally recognised as a masterpiece of English literature, it also occupies a key position in the history of western art.This unique edition of the work allows Blake to communicate with his readers as he intended, reproducing Blake''s own illumination and lettering from the finest existing example of the original work. In this way readers can experience the mystery and beauty of Blake''s poems as he first created them, discovering for themselves the intricate webs of symbol and meaning that connects word and image.Each poem is accompanied by a literal transcription, and the volume is introduced by the renowned historian and critic, Richard Holmes. The poems are narrated by novelist and critic, Adam Mars-Jones.This beautiful edition of Song of Innocence and of Experience will be essential for those familiar with Blake''s work, but also offers an ideal way into his visionary world for those encountering Blake for the first time.

Through some of the most beautiful collected works of the English language, poet William Blake examines the contrary nature of the human heart, the two sides of our progress as we travel from open virginal innocence, to wizened and tried knowledge and experience. Exploring love, heartbreak, joy, fear, life, and death, Blake guides us through a passage of thought on the human experience.

This carefully crafted ebook: "Songs of Innocence (Illuminated Manuscript with the Original Illustrations of William Blake)" is formatted for your eReader with a functional and detailed table of contents. Songs of Innocence was the first of Blake''s illuminated books published in 1789. It is a cheerful and optimistic volume which concerns itself with such themes as springtime, children''s games, the freedom of the human spirit, and a kind and loving God. The poems and artwork were reproduced by copperplate engraving and colored with washes by hand. William Blake (1757 – 1827) was a British poet, painter, visionary mystic, and engraver, who illustrated and printed his own books. Blake proclaimed the supremacy of the imagination over the rationalism and materialism of the 18th-century. Largely unrecognised during his lifetime, Blake is now considered a seminal figure in the history of both the poetry and visual arts of the Romantic Age. CONTENT : Introduction The Shepherd The Echoing Green The Lamb The Little Black Boy The Blossom The Chimney-Sweeper The Little Boy Lost The Little Boy Found Laughing Song A Cradle Song The Divine Image Holy Thursday Night Spring Nurse''s Song Infant Joy A Dream On Another''s Sorrow

This carefully crafted ebook: "William Blake''s Illustrations of The Book of Job (Illuminated Manuscript with the Original Illustrations of William Blake)" is formatted for your eReader with a functional and detailed table of contents. William Blake is regarded as one of the greatest creative geniuses of the Romantic era, valued for the visionary power of both his poetry and his art. However, in his own time, he struggled to make ends meet and his work attracted little attention. The book contains a lengthy introduction to the life and work of Black by Norton as was as full page black and white copies of the etchings which Blake between 1823 and 1826 for his illustrated edition of the Book of Job. His Illustrations of the Book tell the Biblical story of Job, one of the books of the Hebrew Bible. It relates his trials at the hands of Satan, his discussions with friends on the origins and nature of his suffering, his challenge to God, and finally a response from God. The book is a didactic poem set in a prose frame and has been included in lists of the greatest books in world literature. William Blake (1757 – 1827) was an English poet, painter, and printmaker. Largely unrecognised during his lifetime, Blake is now considered a seminal figure in the history of both the poetry and visual arts of the Romantic Age. His paintings and poetry have been characterised as part of the Romantic movement and "Pre-Romantic", for its large appearance in the 18th century. Blake was influenced by the ideals and ambitions of the French and American revolutions. Despite these known influences, the singularity of Blake''s work makes him difficult to classify.

This carefully crafted ebook: "The Book of Urizen (Illuminated Manuscript with the Original Illustrations of William Blake)" is formatted for your eReader with a functional and detailed table of contents. The Book of Urizen is one of the major prophetic books of the English poet William Blake, illustrated by Blake’s own plates. It was originally published as The First Book of Urizen in 1794. Later editions dropped the word “first”. The book takes its name from the character Urizen in Blake’s mythology, who represents alienated reason as the source of oppression. The book describes Urizen as the “primeaval priest”, and describes how he became separated from the other Eternals to create his own alienated and enslaving realm of religious dogma. Los and Enitharmon create a space within Urizen’s fallen universe to give birth to their son Orc, the spirit of revolution and freedom. In form, the book is a parody of the Book of Genesis, with Blake’s Urizen being more similar to the demiurge of the Gnostics than a benevolent creator. The poems of William Blake reinterpret the spiritual history of the human race from the fall from Eden to the beginning of the French Revolution. Blake believed in the correspondence between the physical world and the spiritual world and used poetic metaphor to express these beliefs. In his poetry, we hear a man who look''s for mankind to salvage his redemption from oppression through resurgence of imaginative life. The power of repression is a constant theme in Blake''s poems and he articulates his belief in the titanic forces of revolt and the struggle for freedom against the guardians of tradition. "William Blake (1757 – 1827) was an English poet, painter, and printmaker. Largely unrecognised during his lifetime, Blake is now considered a seminal figure in the history of both the poetry and visual arts of the Romantic Age.

This carefully crafted ebook: "The Book of Ahania (Illuminated Manuscript with the Original Illustrations of William Blake)" is formatted for your eReader with a functional and detailed table of contents. The Book of Ahania is one of the English poet William Blake''s prophetic books. It was published in 1795, illustrated by Blake''s own plates. The poem of the book consists of six chapters. The content concerns Fuzon, a son of Urizen, a Zoa or major aspect in Blake''s mythology. Ahania of the title is Urizen''s female counterpart. William Blake was a poet, painter, visionary mystic, and engraver. During his life the prophetic message of his writings were understood by few and misunderstood by many. However Blake is now widely admired for his soulful originality and lofty imagination. The poetry of William Blake is far reaching in its scope and range of experience. The poems of William Blake can offer a profound symbolism and also a delightful childlike innocence. Whatever the inner meaning of Blake’s poetry we can easily appreciate the beautiful language and lyrical quality of his poetic vision.

This carefully crafted ebook: “The Book of Thel (Illuminated Manuscript with the Original Illustrations of William Blake)” is formatted for your eReader with a functional table of contents. The Book of Thel is a poem by William Blake, dated 1789 and probably composed in the period 1788 to 1790. It is illustrated by his own plates, and is relatively short and easy to understand, compared to his later prophetic books. The metre is a fourteen-syllable line. It was preceded by Tiriel, which Blake left in manuscript. A few lines from Tiriel were incorporated into The Book of Thel. Most of the poem is in unrhymed verse. This book consists of eight plates executed in illuminated printing. Sixteen copies of the original print of 1789-1793 are known. Three copies bearing a watermark of 1815 are more elaborately colored than the others. William Blake (1757 – 1827) was a British poet, painter, visionary mystic, and engraver, who illustrated and printed his own books. Blake proclaimed the supremacy of the imagination over the rationalism and materialism of the 18th-century. Largely unrecognised during his lifetime, Blake is now considered a seminal figure in the history of both the poetry and visual arts of the Romantic Age.

Songs of Innocence and of Experience compiles two contrasting but directly related books of poetry by William Blake. Songs of Innocence honors and praises the natural world, the natural innocence of children and their close relationship to God. Songs of Experience contains much darker, disillusioned poems, which deal with serious, often political themes. It is believed that the disastrous end to the French Revolution produced this disillusionment in Blake. He does, however, maintain that true innocence is achieved only through experience.

Poetry.

A beautifully and faithfully reissued edition of William Blake''s revolutionary publication Songs of Innocence and of Experience, a rare and wonderful collection of poetry from one of Britain''s most important artists. Widely recognised as a masterpiece of English literature, Songs of Innocence and of Experience also occupies a key position in the history of Western art. This authentic and unique edition of the work allows William Blake to communicate with his readers as he intended, reproducing his own illumination and lettering from the finest existing example of the original work. In this way, readers can experience the mystery and beauty of Blake''s poems as he first created them, discovering for themselves the intricate web of symbol and meaning that connects word and image. Each poem is accompanied by a literal transcription, and the volume is introduced by the renowned historian and critic, Richard Holmes. This beautiful edition of Songs of Innocence and of Experience is both essential for those familiar with Blake''s work and also an ideal way into his world for those encountering him for the first time.

William Blake is one of England''s most original artists whose works aim to liberate imaginative energies. This volume contains his greatest writings and a generous selection from the Prophetic Books including Milton and Jerusalem.

"The nature of William Blake''s genius and of his art is most completely expressed in his Illuminated Books. In order to give full and free expression to his vision Blake invented a method of printing that enabled him to created works in which words and images combine to form pages uniquely rich in content and beautiful in form. It is only through the pages as originally conceived and published by the poet himself that Blake''s meaning can be fully experienced."--Publisher''s description.

Brian Murray and Suzanne Toren read 45 poems on purity and corruption. Includes paperback edition of Songs of Innocence and Songs of Experience.

21 watercolors interpreting the great biblical book and its theme of unmerited suffering. Also presented here are 11 additional watercolors, plus 28 black-and-white illustrations, including 21 extraordinary engravings based on the watercolors.

These Everyman''s Library Pocket Poets hardcover editions are popular for their compact size and reasonable price which do not compromise content. Poems: Blake contains a full selection of Blake''s work, including Songs of Innocence, Songs of Experience, poems from Blake''s Ms. book, poems from The Prophetic Books, and an index of first lines.