In this insightful conversation, Philip Pullman, renowned author of the His Dark Materials trilogy, delves into the enchanting world of William Blake, a poet who has captivated him for over sixty years. They explore the dualities in Blake's 'Songs of Innocence and Experience', discuss the transformative power of poetry, and examine Blake's radical views on good, evil, and the human experience. Pullman also shares his admiration for Blake's collaborative life with his wife, Catherine, and reflects on the lasting legacy of Blake's visionary artistry.
Philip Pullman reflects on how William Blake's poetry evokes strong emotions, emphasizing the power of language beyond mere understanding.
Blake's innovative techniques in creating illuminated works reveal his dedication to merging art and poetry, showcasing a unique craftsmanship.
The themes in Blake's writings interconnect social justice with personal experience, advocating for moral responsibility and critique of societal norms.
Deep dives
Understanding William Blake's Legacy
William Blake was a poet and artist whose work was largely unrecognized during his lifetime, selling only a handful of copies of his major works. Despite this, he has had a profound influence on future generations, inspiring celebrated poets and musicians throughout the years. Blake’s poetry, such as 'Songs of Innocence and of Experience,' illustrates the duality of the human soul, contrasting themes of innocence with the harsher realities of experience. This dichotomy resonates in his most famous lines, showing that while he may have been overlooked in his era, his artistic vision and messages have endured and flourished in contemporary culture.
Philip Pullman's Encounter with Blake
Sir Philip Pullman shares his personal journey with Blake's works, revealing how he encountered Blake’s poetry during his teenage years, sparking a lifelong fascination. His initial experiences of overhearing poetry in school had a profound emotional impact, making him feel the physical resonance of words. Pullman emphasizes that the essence of poetry lies beyond mere understanding; it invokes feelings and a sense of being alive. This connection highlights the instinctive recognition of the truth in poetry, reinforcing the idea that poetry communicates through sound, not just through meaning.
Blake's Vision and Craftsmanship
Blake’s unique printing technique involved hand-engraving his poetry and illustrations on copper plates, merging text with visual art to create 'illuminated' works. This intricate process allowed him complete control over the production of his texts, reflecting his individuality and artistic vision. His commitment to craftsmanship can be seen in the detail of his engravings, which demonstrated his mastery of line and form. The effort and dedication put into each piece symbolize Blake's belief in the intrinsic relationship between the visual and literary arts, setting him apart from his contemporaries.
The Marriage of Heaven and Hell
In 'The Marriage of Heaven and Hell,' Blake presents a radical philosophical framework that challenges conventional religious binary oppositions. The poem features paradoxical aphorisms that provoke thought, such as exploring the relationship between body and soul, and asserting that true wisdom lies in the embrace of desires rather than repression. Blake's notions suggest that societal norms imprison individuals, advocating instead for a personal system of understanding. This revolutionary approach not only critiques existing religious structures but also underscores the necessity of personal experience in the pursuit of truth and creativity.
Political and Social Themes in Blake's Work
Blake's poetry richly intertwines themes of innocence, experience, and social justice, presenting a vision that critiques societal and political injustices of his time. His work often vividly connects simple, everyday images with grand concepts, emphasizing the moral responsibilities of individuals. In 'Auguries of Innocence,' Blake articulates deep insights into the human condition, linking the treatment of animals to broader state and societal issues. This blending of the personal with the political establishes Blake as not only a creative force but also a committed observer of the human experience, who sought to teach and inspire change through his art.
William Blake’s poetry and prose. We visit Sir Philip at home to discuss the poet who has ‘inspired and intoxicated’ him for the last sixty years. In Philip’s book-lined sitting room we discuss Blake’s most loved works: his Songs of Innocence and of Experience, The Marriage of Heaven and Hell and Auguries of Innocence.
Pullman has written frequently about Blake and previously served as President of the William Blake Society.
