Holy Thursday MCQs and Summary

By: Prof. Dr. Fazal Rehman | Last updated: June 10, 2025

Summary:

William Blake wrote two poems titled Holy Thursday, one in Songs of Innocence (1789) and the other in Songs of Experience (1794). Each version presents a different perspective on the same event—the annual Ascension Day service for poor children in St. Paul’s Cathedral, London.

• Songs of Innocence (1789):
  • The poem describes a grand procession of orphaned children, dressed in colorful clothes, marching to St. Paul’s Cathedral.
  • They are compared to “flowers of London town” and “innocent lambs”, symbolizing purity.
  • The church officials are portrayed as benevolent caretakers, leading the children in praise and gratitude to God.
  • The tone is optimistic and celebratory, highlighting the children’s innocence and devotion.
• Songs of Experience (1794):
  • This version contrasts sharply with the earlier one, offering a critical view of society.
  • The poem questions whether it is truly “holy” to see poor, hungry children in a wealthy nation.
  • Blake criticizes the hypocrisy of religious and political institutions, which allow poverty and suffering to persist.
  • The tone is bitter and ironic, calling England “a land of poverty!”

Together, these poems reflect Blake’s dual vision of innocence and experience, showing both the beauty and the injustice of society.