The Clod and the Pebble, William Blake: Summary & Analysis

In "The Clod and the Pebble" by William Blake, the poet presents a thought-provoking exploration of contrasting perspectives on love. Through the voices of a clod of clay and a pebble, Blake delves into the dual nature of love, portraying it both as selfless and altruistic, and as self-serving and possessive. The juxtaposition of these two viewpoints highlights the complexity and diverse interpretations of love. The Clod and the Pebble ‘‘Love seeketh not itself to please, Nor for itself hath any care, But for another gives it ease, And builds a heaven in hell’s despair.’’ So sang a little clod of clay, Trodden with the cattle’s feet, But a pebble of the brook Warbled out these metres meet: ‘‘Love seeketh only Self to please, To bind another to its delight, Joys in another’s loss of ease, And builds a hell in heaven’s despite.’’ Critical Analysis "The Clod and the Pebble" presents a profound exploration of the conflicting nature of love, illustrating how differing p…