Literary Devices in London by William Blake
In William Blake's London poem, the poet expresses his anger and dissatisfaction with the society he sees around him. The repetitive use of "In every" highlights the universal nature of the suffering and oppression that the poet observes. This use of repetition also emphasizes the extent of the misery that Blake associates with the city of London.
London Poem Structure
The structure of the poem is tightly controlled, with consistent and common rhyme, reflecting the control that the poet sees exerted over the people in London. The use of oxymoron in the poem represents the end of what should be a positive start, further reinforcing the theme of poverty and desperation.
London Poem Themes
The themes of anger, poverty, and power are evident throughout the poem. Imagery and symbolism are used to criticize the lack of action by the Church and the fault of royalty in the suffering of soldiers. The poet's use of metaphor and alliteration suggests that the government restricts thought and freedom, amplifying the sense of unhappiness and oppression in the city.
London Poem Context
William Blake's London poem can be seen as a precursor to the poverty depicted in 'A Christmas Carol' and 'Inspector Calls'. It reflects the degradation, neglect, and anger experienced by the poor in London during the time period. As a Romantic poet, Blake protested against the government and those in positions of power, highlighting the injustices faced by the common people in the city.
London by William Blake Line by Line Explanation
The poem begins with the poet expressing his anger at the state of society in London, hearing the cries and fears of every person he encounters. The poet describes the chartered streets and the chartered Thames, illustrating the controlled and restricted nature of life in the city. Blake highlights the weakness and woe that he sees in every face he meets, painting a bleak picture of the human experience in London.
In the following stanzas, the poet continues to describe the suffering he witnesses, from the cries of the chimney-sweeper to the sighs of the soldier. The imagery used, such as the "new-born infant's tear" and the "plagues on the marriage hearse", further emphasizes the hopelessness and despair that pervade the city. The cycle of suffering is portrayed as never-ending, with no hope for the youth and no escape from the deep unhappiness in society.
William Blake's London poem stands as a powerful critique of the social and political conditions of his time, using evocative language and poetic devices to convey the universal feelings of anger and oppression experienced by the people of London.
