The Little Vagabond, William Blake: Summary & Analysis

"The Little Vagabond" by William Blake is a poem that criticizes the hypocrisy and moral rigidity of the church while advocating for a more joyful and inclusive approach to spirituality. Through the voice of a child, Blake presents a vision of a world where people can find warmth, happiness, and connection in places like the alehouse, rather than feeling cold and unwelcome in the church. The Little Vagabond by William Blake Dear mother, dear mother, the Church is cold; But the Alehouse is healthy, and pleasant, and warm. Besides, I can tell where I am used well; The poor parsons with wind like a blown bladder swell. But, if at the Church they would give us some ale, And a pleasant fire our souls to regale, We’d sing and we’d pray all the livelong day, Nor ever once wish from the Church to stray. Then the Parson might preach, and drink, and sing, And we’d be as happy as birds in the spring; And modest Dame Lurch, who is always at church, Would not have bandy children, nor fast…