William Blake’s poem, London as a poem of social revolt

William Blake’s poem, London as a poem of social revolt

Q. To what extent can Blake’s “London” be regarded as a poem of social revolt?

Answer: William Blake’s poem “London” (1794) is undoubtedly a poem of the romantic era that reflects the social revolt of contemporary times. In this poem, William Blake criticizes the pathetic condition of contemporary society and political institutions. Though some of the critics may point out that the poem is not a direct call for social revolt, its thematic elements and the portrayal of a dystopian city make it a catalyst for social change.

One of the primary elements portraying the social revolt is the way the City of London is portrayed very artistically. The phrases like ‘chartered Thames’, ‘marks of weakness, marks of woe' suggest a city which is controlled by corrupt institutions. Again, by using the word ‘chartered’, William Blake implies that the natural elements of the city are subject to the constraints of authority.

William Blake emphasizes the suffocating effect of social and religious institutions on individuals. The poet uses the repeated references to ‘mind-forged-manacles’ and ‘blackening-church-appalls’. These descriptions, thus, highlight the complicity between religious institutions and the oppressive powerful organizations that govern society.

Besides, the poem highlights the pathetic conditions and sufferings of vulnerable members of society. Blake’s portrayal of "hapless soldiers" and "harlot's curse," along with the "youthful harlot's curse" and "newborn infant's tear," expose the pathetic condition of the people living in society. These people are starkly victimized by social orders. With this depiction, the readers will find sympathy for these people. And this compassion in the minds of readers causes so many questions regarding the established social hierarchies and the damned change in society.

Thus, through the portrayals of social illness, the poem “London” indirectly criticizes the ruling leaders and their role in establishing social injustice. The poem condemns the "palace walls" and the "mind-forged manacles" that can find innocent people. Blake suggests that the ruling classes are complicit in maintaining an unjust social order.

He mentions the ‘palace’ with oppression and the ‘manacles’ with mental bondage. The use of the metaphorical phrase "blackening church appalls” also highlights the complicity between religious institutions and oppressive powerful organizations. This critique of authority and its institutions gives parallels with the spirit of social revolt.

Once again, the poem “London” does not explicitly advocate rebellion. It serves as a powerful catalyst for social change. It exposes the injustice and grievances of contemporary times. Blake’s vivid imagery and evocative language have a profound impact on the readers. This strong imagery evokes a sense of anger and frustration in the minds of readers.

The poem focuses on the sufferings and oppression of vulnerable people in society. It also exposes the denunciation of the ruling leaders and their oppressive institutions. All these facts simultaneously create the theme of social revolt.

In other words, Blake’s poem, “London” is undoubtedly regarded as a poem of social revolt. Its powerful imagery, thematic elements and criticism of social conditions make it a compelling expression of discontent and a call for change.

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