Songs of Innocence

Songs of Innocence


Songs of Innocence, published in 1789, is a collection of lyrical poetry written and illustrated by William Blake. Blake believed that innocence and experience were "the two contrary states of the human soul." He also believed that true innocence was impossible without experience.

The verses in Songs of Innocence are about children or written from a child's perspective.

In 1794, Blake went on to publish Songs of Experience as a companion to this volume.

Table of Contents


Introduction
The Shepherd
The Echoing Green
The Lamb
The Little Black Boy
The Blossom
The Chimney Sweeper
The Little Boy Lost
The Little Boy Found
Laughing Song
A Cradle Song
The Divine Image
Holy Thursday
Night
Spring
Nurse's Song
Infant Joy
A Dream
On Another's Sorrow