What are the models for the Songs of Innocence and Songs of Experience? (MEG 102) (SONGS OF INNOCENCE AND SONGS OF EXPERIENCE)

Blake's models for the Songs of Innocence and Songs of Experience were his own personal experiences, observations of the world around him, and his artistic imagination. However, he was also influenced by a variety of literary and cultural traditions, including the Bible, folklore, and popular ballads.

For the Songs of Innocence, Blake drew inspiration from the pastoral tradition, which celebrated the natural world and the innocence of childhood. He also used biblical themes and images, such as the lamb, to convey a sense of purity and innocence. The poems in this collection are characterized by their simplicity, charm, and childlike wonder.

In contrast, the Songs of Experience reflect a darker and more cynical view of the world. The poems in this collection are often critical of social and political institutions, and explore themes such as corruption, oppression, and the loss of innocence. To convey these ideas, Blake used a range of images and symbols, including the tiger, the chimney sweep, and the garden of love.

Overall, the models for the Songs of Innocence and Songs of Experience were diverse and multifaceted, reflecting Blake's unique artistic vision and his engagement with a range of literary and cultural traditions.