Welcome to Poem of the Day – Jerusalem by William Blake
William Blake’s Jerusalem is one of the most famous poems in English literature. Written in the early 19th century, this poem has been widely admired for its bold vision and powerful themes. It is not just a poem but a symbol of Blake’s revolutionary spirit and his desire to transform society. Let’s break down the meaning of this important work.
Jerusalem Poem
I see the Four-fold Man, The Humanity in deadly sleep
And its fallen Emanation, the Spectre and its cruel Shadow.
I see the Past, Present and Future existing all at once
Before me. O Divine Spirit, sustain me on thy wings,
That I may awake Albion from his long and cold repose;
For Bacon and Newton, sheath’d in dismal steel, their terrors hang
Like iron scourges over Albion: reasonings like vast serpents
Infold around my limbs, bruising my minute articulations.
I turn my eyes to the schools and universities of Europe
And there behold the Loom of Locke, whose Woof rages dire,
Wash’d by the Water-wheels of Newton: black the cloth
In heavy wreaths folds over every nation: cruel works
Of many Wheels I view, wheel without wheel, with cogs tyrannic
Moving by compulsion each other, not as those in Eden, which,
Wheel within wheel, in freedom revolve in harmony and peace.
Jerusalem Explanation
The Context
Jerusalem was originally written as part of a larger collection of poems called Milton: A Poem. Blake, who was also an artist, was known for his mystical and visionary ideas. He often criticized the established church and the political systems of his time. This poem reflects his deep belief that England should return to a spiritual and moral way of life, free from the corruption that he saw around him.
Themes in Jerusalem
The poem grapples with the idea of building a better world—one that reflects divine harmony and justice. Blake was deeply influenced by his Christian faith, but he was critical of the institutional church. He believed that a true Christian society would be one where individuals lived with love, equality, and a sense of divine purpose.
The Vision of Jerusalem: In the first lines, Blake asks whether it is possible to build Jerusalem, or the “City of God,” in England. This question is metaphorical. Blake wasn’t asking if a physical city could be constructed; he was asking whether a more spiritually enlightened and just society could emerge. The Jerusalem he speaks of symbolizes an ideal world of peace, love, and divine presence.
The Personal and the Political: Blake uses the imagery of building Jerusalem as a metaphor for social change. He suggests that each person must contribute to this transformation by rejecting the oppressive forces of materialism and institutionalized religion. This can be seen in the lines where Blake refers to “those dark Satanic mills,” which critics believe represent the industrial revolution and the oppressive societal structures of his time. For Blake, these forces stood in opposition to the divine light of the “new Jerusalem.”
The Role of the Individual: Throughout the poem, Blake emphasizes the importance of individual action. The vision of a transformed society cannot come to pass unless people are willing to act in accordance with divine values. This is clear when Blake talks about “the Lamb of God,” a symbol of innocence and purity, and how people must embody these qualities to bring about change.
Structure and Language
Jerusalem is written in a simple, rhythmic style. The use of repetition gives the poem a chanting, almost hymn-like quality, which enhances its spiritual message. Blake’s language is both direct and metaphorical, making the poem easy to read but layered with deeper meanings.
The poem’s structure is also key to its impact. The regular meter and rhyme scheme make it memorable and add a musical quality. This rhythm mirrors the idea of a societal transformation that is not only spiritual but also harmonious.
The Legacy of Jerusalem
Over the years, Jerusalem has become a patriotic song, especially in England. Its call for a better world has resonated deeply with generations of people seeking social justice and spiritual renewal. The poem’s lines, “And did those feet in ancient time / Walk upon England’s mountains green?” have become iconic, evoking both a sense of national pride and the hope for spiritual revival.
However, the poem’s message goes beyond any particular national context. Blake’s vision is timeless—it speaks to the universal human longing for justice, peace, and spiritual fulfillment. It encourages readers to reflect on the role they can play in shaping a better world.
Conclusion
In Jerusalem, William Blake presents a powerful vision of what a spiritually enlightened society might look like. His message is both a critique of his contemporary world and a hopeful call to action. The poem challenges us to consider our own roles in creating a better, more just world. Through its vivid imagery and rhythmic language, Jerusalem continues to inspire and provoke thought, making it a central piece of Blake’s legacy.
