William Blake’s 1794 Poison
Tree, a
poem in his Songs of Experience
collection, is lyrical yet sinister. Just like the speaker in the poem, Blake
is devious in the construction of his work. The poem feigns cheerfulness and
even appears on the page as a nursery rhyme might. However, as each stanza
progresses the tone grows darker and darker ascending to its murderous conclusion.
The poem seems to be a comment on human nature and goodness. It analyzes the
ill- effects of holding a grudge. Blake brilliantly weaves a literal and
metaphorical world together. As the narrator’s hatred grows deeper and deeper,
it becomes more tangible until finally it is manifested in reality.
A Poison Tree by William Blake
I was angry with
my friend;
I told my wrath, my wrath did end.
I was angry with my foe:
I told it not, my wrath did grow.
And I watered it in fears,
Night & morning with my tears:
And I sunned it with smiles,
And with soft deceitful wiles.
And it grew both day and night.
Till it bore an apple bright.
And my foe beheld it shine,
And he knew that it was mine.
And into my garden stole,
When the night had veiled the pole;
In the morning glad I see;
My foe outstretched beneath the tree.
I told my wrath, my wrath did end.
I was angry with my foe:
I told it not, my wrath did grow.
And I watered it in fears,
Night & morning with my tears:
And I sunned it with smiles,
And with soft deceitful wiles.
And it grew both day and night.
Till it bore an apple bright.
And my foe beheld it shine,
And he knew that it was mine.
And into my garden stole,
When the night had veiled the pole;
In the morning glad I see;
My foe outstretched beneath the tree.
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