The Complete Poetry of William Blake: Illustrated Delphi Poets Series

William Blake, the visionary poet and artist, left an enduring legacy upon the world of literature and art. His unique and profound insights into the human condition, expressed through his distinctive use of symbolism and mysticism, continue to captivate and inspire generations of readers.

The Delphi Complete Poetry of William Blake is a comprehensive collection of his poetic works, meticulously edited and annotated for modern readers. This edition is a must-have for students, scholars, and enthusiasts of Blake's work, offering a rich and immersive experience into his literary genius.

Complete Poetry of William Blake (Illustrated) (Delphi Poets Series)

by William Blake

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	8861 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	490 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Hardcover	:	192 pages
Item Weight	:	8.8 ounces
Dimensions	:	6 x 0.29 x 9 inches
Paperback	:	128 pages

FREE

A Journey into Blake's Symbolism

Blake's poetry is renowned for its intricate and evocative use of symbolism. He weaves together biblical, mythological, and personal imagery to create a rich tapestry of meaning. Through his symbols, Blake explores themes of innocence and experience, good and evil, and the divine and mundane.

In "The Tyger," for instance, Blake confronts the duality of existence through the powerful symbol of the tiger. The "burning bright" tiger represents both the awe-inspiring beauty and the terrifying power of nature. Its "fearful symmetry" suggests the contradictory nature of creation, where beauty can coexist with destruction.

Blake's use of symbolism extends beyond isolated images; it permeates his entire poetic universe. The lamb, the chimney sweep, and the rose become recurring motifs, each carrying a layered and multifaceted significance. Understanding these symbols is essential for unlocking the depths of Blake's poetry.

Mysticism and the Prophetic Voice

Blake's mysticism sets him apart from his contemporaries. He believed himself to be a prophet, a visionary guided by divine inspiration. This mystical element shapes his poetry, giving it a timeless and universal quality.

In "Auguries of Innocence," Blake presents a series of enigmatic verses that reveal his mystical perception of the world. Through his "prophetic eye," he observes the interconnectedness of all beings and the hidden wisdom that lies beneath the surface of ordinary existence.

Blake's mysticism is not merely a passive contemplation; it is an active engagement with the divine. He seeks to awaken his readers, to inspire them to transcend the limitations of the material world and embrace the spiritual realm.

The Poetic Landscape of William Blake

Blake's poetry is as diverse as it is profound. His works range from short, epigrammatic lyrics to long, epic narratives. Each poem is a unique expression of his artistic vision and philosophical insights.

Songs of Innocence and Experience

Songs of Innocence (1789) and Songs of Experience (1794) are two intertwined collections that explore the contrasting states of innocence and experience. In Songs of Innocence, Blake paints a idyllic picture of childhood, where the world is seen through the eyes of wonder and imagination.

However, in Songs of Experience, a more somber tone prevails. Blake confronts the harsh realities of adult life, where innocence is lost and experience brings pain and disillusionment. The two collections offer a poignant exploration of the human journey from the carefree innocence of childhood to the complexities of adulthood.

The Prophetic Books

Blake's later works, known as the Prophetic Books, are more ambitious in scope and complex in structure. These visionary poems, such as The Marriage of Heaven and Hell and Jerusalem, explore Blake's mystical and revolutionary ideas.

Through these works, Blake envisions a utopian society where imagination and spirituality triumph over the oppressive forces of reason and materialism. His Prophetic Books are a testament to his unwavering belief in the transformative power of art and the boundless potential of the human spirit.

An Illustrated Journey into Blake's World

The Delphi Complete Poetry of William Blake is not only a comprehensive collection of his literary works but also a visual masterpiece. The edition is adorned with numerous illustrations by Blake himself, providing an immersive experience into his creative vision.

Blake's illustrations are an integral part of his poetry. They complement the text, providing additional insights and layers of meaning. In his illustration for "The Tyger," for instance, the tiger's fiery eyes seem to burn with both beauty and terror, echoing the poem's exploration of the dual nature of existence.

The illustrations in this edition are meticulously reproduced, capturing the intricate details and vibrant colors of Blake's original works. They offer a unique opportunity to appreciate the full extent of Blake's artistic genius and to delve deeper into the imaginative world he created.

A Legacy of Inspiration and Insight

William Blake's poetry continues to resonate with readers across generations. His visionary insights, his unique use of symbolism, and his unwavering belief in the power of imagination make his works a timeless treasure.

The Delphi Complete Poetry of William Blake is the definitive edition for anyone seeking to explore the full range of his poetic genius. With its comprehensive collection of works, its insightful annotations, and its stunning illustrations, this edition is a must-have for scholars, students, and anyone who appreciates the enduring power of poetry.

Immerse yourself in the visionary world of William Blake and let his words and images ignite your imagination. Through his poetry, you will encounter the profound depths of human existence and discover the transformative power of art and spirituality.

Additional Resources

• The William Blake Archive
• The Poetry Foundation
• Tate
• National Galleries of Scotland

Complete Poetry of William Blake (Illustrated) (Delphi Poets Series)

by William Blake

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	8861 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	490 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Hardcover	:	192 pages
Item Weight	:	8.8 ounces
Dimensions	:	6 x 0.29 x 9 inches
Paperback	:	128 pages

FREE