BAROZA, MA. KRISTINA P.

LONDON

By William Blake

(CRITIQUE PAPER)

William Blake's poem "London," published in his collection "Songs of

Experience" in 1794, is a poignant reflection on the societal and political issues
plaguing the city of London during the late 18th century. Blake employs a
combination of vivid imagery, religious symbolism, and stark critique to paint a
bleak picture of urban life. This critique will delve into the poem's themes, poetic
devices, and historical context to analyze its enduring relevance and impact.

One of the central themes of "London" is the pervasive suffering of the

disenfranchised. Blake uses powerful imagery to illustrate this suffering, such as
"marks of weakness, marks of woe" etched on the faces of people he encounters.
These "marks" are both physical and metaphorical, representing the visible and
invisible scars of poverty and oppression. The "mind-forged manacles" vividly
depict the mental and emotional chains that bind the city's inhabitants. Also,
Blake employs religious symbolism to critique the corruption of both the Church
and the state. The "blackening church" signifies the moral decay of religious
institutions, suggesting that they have strayed from their spiritual mission. The
reference to a "hapless soldier's sigh" hints at the manipulation of religion for
political purposes, as soldiers who should be defending their country are instead
used as tools of oppression. In addition, it can be seen as a reaction to the
negative consequences of industrialization. The "chartered Thames" and
"chartered streets" emphasize how even natural elements have been
commodified and exploited. The "youthful harlot's curse" is a poignant
commentary on the exploitation of vulnerable individuals, especially women and
children, in the burgeoning factories and workshops of the city.

To sum up, William Blake’s “London” delivers a powerful critique of the

social, political, and moral issues that plagued London during his time. Through
evocative imagery, religious symbolism, and a structured poetic form, he paints
a grim picture of a city in which suffering, oppression, and exploitation are
rampant. The poem remains relevant today as a timeless reminder of the human
cost of unchecked power, social inequality, and the dehumanizing effects of
industrialization and urbanization.

In a world where social justice and inequality persist, "London" serves as a

poignant call to examine the consequences of our actions and work toward a
more equitable and compassionate society.