Welcome to Poem of the Day – Three Things to Remember by William Blake.
Three Things to Remember is a poem by the renowned poet William Blake. It carries a simple yet profound message about life and the importance of holding onto the essentials. The poem, like many of Blake’s works, blends deep philosophical insights with an accessible form, making it both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant. In this article, we will explore the poem’s explanation, structure and form, and a detailed breakdown of its major elements.
Three Things to Remember Poem
A Robin Redbreast in a cage,
Puts all Heaven in a rage.
A skylark wounded on the wing
Doth make a cherub cease to sing.
He who shall hurt the little wren
Shall never be beloved by men.
Three Things to Remember Poem Explanation
Three Things to Remember is a reflective poem that suggests three key principles to live by: to value your true self, to cherish kindness, and to act with integrity. Blake uses these principles to highlight the importance of internal values over external appearances. The poem is an invitation to stay grounded in what truly matters, reminding the reader not to be distracted by superficial pursuits or worldly desires.
Blake’s focus is on personal responsibility and ethical living. In his view, the path to true happiness and fulfillment lies in remembering these fundamental truths. The “three things” are not complex or grandiose but are meant to be simple and accessible for everyday life. This straightforward message is a hallmark of Blake’s work, making it relatable to readers across time and place.
Structure and Form
The poem Three Things to Remember is short and composed of three stanzas. Each stanza corresponds to one of the “three things” Blake wants the reader to remember. The form of the poem is relatively simple, following a consistent rhyme scheme and meter. The straightforward structure complements the clarity and simplicity of the message.
The poem’s rhythm is calm and steady, matching the reflective nature of the content. Each stanza is brief and to the point, which makes the ideas easy to grasp and recall. This compact structure also mirrors the idea that the principles Blake is discussing are simple and should be easy to integrate into daily life.
The poem’s directness and brevity are important aspects of its effectiveness. It conveys a powerful message without unnecessary complexity or embellishment. The clear structure encourages the reader to focus on the key elements, making the poem both easy to read and deeply impactful.
Detailed Explanation of Major Elements
Imagery and Language
Blake’s imagery in Three Things to Remember is minimalist yet effective. Rather than using elaborate descriptions, Blake relies on simple, clear language to convey his message. The language is reflective and meditative, urging the reader to consider their actions and thoughts deeply. By using plain and direct words, Blake ensures that the message is accessible to all readers, regardless of age or background.
Each of the three principles Blake shares is framed in simple language that emphasizes clarity. For instance, when he speaks about valuing one’s true self, he does not complicate the idea with metaphor but instead makes it an essential part of the reader’s internal landscape. This makes the poem feel more like advice from a wise friend than a complex philosophical argument.
Tone
The tone of the poem is calm and contemplative. Blake’s choice of words and the rhythmic flow of the poem create a meditative atmosphere. There is no urgency or high emotion, but instead a steady encouragement to reflect on one’s own life. Blake’s tone implies wisdom and insight, as if he is speaking directly to the reader’s heart. It is a voice that seeks to guide, not to command, suggesting that the reader find their own path toward the truth Blake is presenting.
Themes
The central theme of Three Things to Remember is the importance of focusing on internal values rather than external circumstances. Blake stresses that a life guided by inner principles—such as kindness, truth, and self-awareness—is more fulfilling than one driven by material pursuits or outward appearance.
Another theme in the poem is simplicity. Blake advocates for a life led by simple, clear principles, which aligns with his broader poetic philosophy of returning to essential truths. Rather than seeking grand achievements or external validation, the poem encourages readers to value their inner lives and relationships with others.
The idea of remembering these three principles is also a theme of mindfulness and self-awareness. Blake suggests that we must actively recall and live by these values to maintain a sense of moral integrity and inner peace.
Structure of the Three Key Principles
Each of the three stanzas presents one of the key principles Blake wants to highlight:
Value your true self: This principle speaks to the importance of understanding and accepting who we are. By remembering our intrinsic value, we are less likely to be influenced by external pressures or superficial judgments.
Cherish kindness: This principle highlights the significance of compassion and treating others with respect. Blake seems to suggest that kindness is a foundational element of a just and meaningful life.
Act with integrity: The final principle emphasizes moral consistency and honesty. Blake suggests that living authentically and truthfully is key to leading a life that is aligned with one’s deepest values.
Conclusion
Three Things to Remember is a deceptively simple yet profoundly wise poem by William Blake. Through clear, accessible language and a straightforward structure, the poem presents three key principles for living a fulfilling and ethical life. The focus on inner values over external achievements and the emphasis on kindness, truth, and self-awareness provide timeless advice for anyone seeking guidance in how to navigate the complexities of life.
Blake’s poem serves as a reminder that the most meaningful and lasting principles are often the simplest. By returning to these core values, we can live a life that is not only good for ourselves but also enriching to the people around us.
