Most Popular Books by William Blake

Poetry.

This edition includes almost all Blake''s substantive variants with the exception of some in the exceptionally complex manuscript of Vala, or the Four Zoas.

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.

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.

''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.

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.

These two collections of Blake''s finest and best-loved poems--printed on vellum--offer the text of each poem in letterpress on the page facing a beautiful color reproduction of the design Blake created to illustrate the particular poem.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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