William Blake

by Arthur Symons

"WILLIAM BLAKE" by Arthur Symons is a biographical study written in the early 20th century. This work examines the life, artistic achievements, and philosophical ideas of the renowned poet and artist William Blake, providing a comprehensive account drawn from various contemporary sources. It delves into Blake's profound impact on literature and art, discussing his unique vision that challenges conventional morality and societal norms, while also capturing his creative process. The opening of the biography introduces the author’s inspiration to write it, stemming from his longtime admiration for Blake's poetry and the desire to explore the deeper meanings behind his works. Symons outlines his goal to present not only his own interpretations of Blake’s life and contributions but also to provide verbatim accounts from historical documents and contemporary records. The beginning emphasizes Blake’s role as a visionary artist whose thoughts on morality, the imagination, and the spiritual world resonate with both past and modern ideals, particularly drawing connections to Nietzsche's philosophies and Blake's concept of the imagination being the gateway to a higher reality.