William Blake's 'The Lamb' analysed.

Summary

In this analysis of William Blake's poem 'The Lamb,' the speaker explores the innocence and divine nature embedded in the imagery of a lamb. Through a trochaic rhythm, the poem poses questions about the lamb's creator, offering the answer that it is God, symbolized by Christ, the 'Lamb of God.' The speaker highlights Blake's use of personification, alliteration, and rhythm to convey deeper themes of divine creation and interconnectedness between humans, animals, and nature. The poem ultimately presents a reflection on innocence, spiritual purity, and the sacredness of life in the world.

Takeaways

• 😀 The poem 'The Lamb' by William Blake explores the creation of a lamb and its connection to God and Jesus Christ.
• 😀 The poem is structured in two verses: the first verse asks questions about the lamb's origin, and the second provides an answer, linking the lamb to Christ.
• 😀 Blake uses a trochaic rhythm (strong-weak beats) throughout the poem, creating a unique, pulsing effect that contrasts with the more common iambic rhythm.
• 😀 The lamb symbolizes innocence, purity, and gentleness, which are qualities attributed to Christ as the 'Lamb of God.'
• 😀 The poet connects the lamb’s creation to God, emphasizing the divine presence in nature and in all of creation.
• 😀 The question 'Who made thee?' in the first verse invites contemplation about divine creation, but Blake offers a clear answer in the second verse: God made the lamb.
• 😀 The poem includes a shift in perspective, where the poet aligns himself with Christ, saying 'I a child and thou a lamb,' highlighting the connection between humanity and divine creation.
• 😀 Blake uses alliteration, especially in phrases like 'Meek and mild,' to reinforce the qualities of Christ and the lamb and to enhance the poem’s musicality.
• 😀 The poem presents a contrast between innocence (the lamb) and fierceness (the tiger) seen in Blake's other work, prompting reflection on the complexities of divine creation.
• 😀 The overall tone of the poem is hymn-like, invoking a sense of prayer and reverence toward God's creation and the lamb's place within it.

Q & A

What is the main theme of William Blake's poem *The Lamb*?

The main theme of *The Lamb* revolves around innocence, creation, and divine connection. It emphasizes the idea of God as the creator of both the lamb and the world, drawing parallels between the lamb and Christ, symbolizing purity and meekness.

How does Blake's use of trochaic meter impact the poem?

Blake’s use of trochaic meter, which alternates between a heavy accent and a lighter syllable, creates a rhythmic and forceful quality in the poem. This rhythm enhances the feeling of power and vitality, particularly emphasizing key moments and the connection between the lamb and divine creation.

What role does personification play in *The Lamb*?

Personification is used to give life to the landscape and animals in the poem, such as when the 'veils rejoice' at the lamb’s existence. This technique highlights Blake's belief that nature and animals are deeply connected to divine creation, almost human in their animation.

What is the significance of the phrase 'he is called by thy name for he calls himself a lamb'?

This phrase ties the lamb to Jesus Christ, known as the 'Lamb of God.' It symbolizes Christ's meekness and innocence, linking the lamb to divine purity and further reinforcing the idea that both humans and animals are part of God's creation.

How does the poem contrast the lamb with the tiger in Blake's broader work?

In contrast to the lamb's meekness, the tiger, in another of Blake's poems, represents fierceness and power. This comparison raises questions about how the same creator can design both such contrasting creatures, offering deeper reflection on the nature of God and creation.

What does the switch in perspective in the line 'I a child and thou a lamb' signify?

The shift in perspective suggests a connection between the poet and the lamb, positioning the speaker as part of a divine plan. It also aligns the poet with Christ, reinforcing the theme of divine innocence and unity with creation.

How does the rhythm of the poem contribute to its overall tone?

The rhythm, particularly the trochaic meter, contributes to a steady, prayer-like tone, evoking a sense of reverence and spirituality. The rhythm mimics a heartbeat, adding to the poem's sense of vitality and the interconnectedness of all living things.

What is the significance of the line 'little lamb God bless thee'?

This line functions as a blessing, reinforcing the theme of divine protection and care for all of creation. It also adds a sense of closure and sanctity to the poem, ending it with a prayer-like sentiment that emphasizes the spiritual connection between the lamb and the creator.

How does Blake use imagery to connect the lamb to nature?

Blake uses vivid imagery of streams, meads, and soft clothing to connect the lamb to a natural, divine landscape. This connection suggests that nature itself is alive with joy and divinity, reflecting the purity and innocence embodied by the lamb.

What does the repetition of the question 'Dost thou know who made thee?' suggest about the lamb's awareness?

The repetition of the question invites reflection on the lamb's consciousness and its relationship with its creator. It suggests that the lamb, while innocent, may not fully understand its divine origin, prompting the poet to provide the answer, thereby reinforcing the connection between creation and the Creator.