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!”
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| Question | Answer |
| Poem Name | Holy Thursday |
| Poet | William Blake |
| Year Published | 1789 (Songs of Innocence), 1794 (Songs of Experience) |
| Main Themes | Innocence vs. Experience, Poverty, Hypocrisy, Religion |
| Tone (Songs of Innocence) | Joyful, Uplifting |
| Tone (Songs of Experience) | Bitter, Critical, Ironical |
| Symbols | Children (Innocence), Flowers (Purity), St. Paul’s Cathedral (Religion & Authority) |
| Literary Devices | Metaphor, Irony, Imagery, Contrast |