Earth's Answer, William Blake: Summary & Analysis
Table of Contents
In "Earth's Answer," William Blake presents a passionate and rebellious response from the Earth itself, reflecting the tension between natural forces and oppressive forces that seek to control and suppress. Through vivid and symbolic language, the poem explores themes of liberation, resistance, and the struggle against societal constraints. The Earth's voice becomes a powerful symbol of defiance against the stifling forces of jealousy and selfishness. Earth's Answer
Earth raised up her head
From the darkness dread and drear,
Her light fled,
Stony, dread,
And her locks covered with grey despair.
‘‘Prisoned on watery shore,
Starry jealousy does keep my den
Cold and hoar;
Weeping o’er,
I hear the father of the ancient men.
‘‘Selfish father of men!
Cruel, jealous, selfish fear!
Can delight,
Chained in night,
The virgins of youth and morning bear?
‘‘Does spring hide its joy,
When buds and blossoms grow?
Does the sower
Sow by night,
Or the plowman in darkness plough…