Compare and Contrast the Two Nurses in Blake’s poems.
Nurse's Song is a notable literary work by William Blake. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, to various questions of Nurse's Song.
Answer
Compare and Contrast the two nurses in Blake’s poems.
William Blake’s (1757-1827) poems “The Nurse’s Song” from “Songs of Innocence” (1789) and “The Nurse’s Song”(1794) from “Songs of Experience” are two different portrayals of nurses. Their roles are shown, reflecting the themes of innocence and experience.
The Nurse’s Song” from “Songs of Innocence:
Innocence and Playfulness: This poem illustrates a nurturing, caring, and indulgent nurse. She encourages the children to play freely, enjoying childhood innocence without any strictness or restrictions.
Connection with Nature: The nurse in this poem is closely associated with nature and the outdoors. She allows the children to frolic in the meadows and fields. She fosters a sense of harmony with the natural world. Poet says:
When the voices of children are heard on the green,
And laughing is heard on the hill,
My heart is at rest within my breast,
And everything else is still.
Joyful and Lighthearted: The tone of this poem is light, joyous, and carefree. It mirrors the carefree nature of childhood. The nurse is depicted as a figure. She wants the children to experience joy and freedom.
The Nurse’s Song” from “Songs of Experience:
Cynical and Restrictive: In contrast to the nurse in the “Songs of Innocence,” this nurse is more restrictive and cautious. She calls the children indoors as evening falls. It indicates a more controlling and protective nature.
Loss of Innocence: This poem’s tone is darker and sombre. It reflects the loss of innocence. The nurse seems to be aware of the dangers and realities of the world. She tries to shield the children from potential harm by bringing them indoors.
Sense of Responsibility: Unlike the carefree attitude of the nurse in the innocent version, this nurse demonstrates a sense of responsibility for the children’s safety and well-being, even if it means restricting their freedom.
Then come home, my children, the sun is gone down,
And the dews of night arise;
In termination, the nurse in “Songs of Innocence” embodies childhood’s carefree, nurturing spirit, encouraging playfulness and connection with nature. On the other hand, the nurse in “Songs of Experience” reflects a more cautious, protective attitude, aware of the dangers and responsibilities that come with experience and the loss of innocence. Both nurses, portrayed in contrasting lights, highlight the duality of perspectives between innocence and experience in Blake’s poetry.