The first and most popular of Blake's famous "Illuminated Books," in a facsimile edition reproducing all 31 brightly colored plates. Additional printed text of each poem.

Shewing the Two Contrary States of the Human Soul (first published in 1794), an expansion of Blake's first illuminated book Songs of Innocence. The poems and artwork were reproduced by copperplate engraving and colored with washes by hand. Blake republished Songs of Innocence and Experience several times, often changing the number and order of the plates. The spellings, punctuation and capitalizations are those of the original Blake manuscripts. William Blake (1757 – 1827) was a British poet, painter, visionary mystic, and engraver, who illustrated and printed his own books. Blake proclaimed the supremacy of the imagination over the rationalism and materialism of the 18th-century. Largely unrecognised during his lifetime, Blake is now considered a seminal figure in the history of both the poetry and visual arts of the Romantic Age.

A collection of poems describing the curious menagerie of guests and residents, human and animal, at William Blake's inn.

Blake's original color plates are faithfully reproduced in this illuminated edition of his early poems

William Blake's 'Songs of Innocence and of Experience: Showing the Two Contrary States of the Human Soul' is a collection of poems that explore the dual nature of humanity, portraying both the purity and simplicity of innocence and the complexity and darkness of experience. Blake's lyrical style and use of symbolism make this work a quintessential example of Romantic poetry, as he delves into themes of childhood, religion, and societal norms. The contrast between the two states of the human soul is vividly depicted through the juxtaposition of the poems in this collection, inviting readers to contemplate the intricacies of human nature and existence. William Blake's unique vision and poetic craftsmanship shine through in each verse, making 'Songs of Innocence and of Experience' a timeless classic in English literature. William Blake, a visionary poet and artist, was deeply influenced by his spiritual beliefs and political views, which are reflected in his works. His exploration of the human soul in 'Songs of Innocence and of Experience' showcases his profound understanding of the human condition and his ability to capture the nuances of emotion and morality. Blake's revolutionary approach to poetry and art set him apart from his contemporaries, making him a revered figure in the Romantic movement. I highly recommend 'Songs of Innocence and of Experience' to readers who appreciate thought-provoking poetry that delves into the complexities of the human experience. William Blake's masterpiece offers a profound exploration of innocence and experience that will resonate with audiences across generations.

The Companion to Romanticism is a major introductory survey from an international galaxy of scholars writing new pieces, specifically for a student readership, under the editorship of Duncan Wu.

Good and evil, right and wrong, innocence and sinfulness, redeemed and fallen. 'Songs of Innocence and of Experience' is a classic book of two halves - encapsulated by the extended original title that included 'Shewing the Two Contrary States of the Human Soul'. Accompanied throughout by William Blake's edgily beautiful illustrations, the book is broken into 19 poems of 'Innocence' and 26 of 'Experience'. 'Songs of Innocence' are lyrical and evocative verses depicting life in pastoral harmony and youthful naivety - but with a brooding undercurrent of what is to come. That undercurrent flows rapidly throughout 'Songs of Experience', as the innocence gives way to darkness, threat and worldliness. These mind-bending poems and illustrations are ideal for fans of the poetry of John Milton and Dante Alighieri. William Blake (1757-1827) was an English poet, painter and printmaker whose writings and artwork often explored Heaven and Hell, and the state of the human heart. His best-known work includes 'Songs of Innocence and of Experience', 'The Marriage of Heaven and Hell' and 'Jerusalem'. Blake's work was largely ignored during his lifetime, but he is now considered to be among the greatest and most influential poets and visual artists of the Romantic Age. Blake's work continues to inspire authors, artists and filmmakers today. Bestselling author, Philip Pullman, has described William Blake as one of three major literary influences on 'His Dark Materials' and references to his artwork is found in films like The Wachowskis' 'V for Vendetta' (2006).