Nurse’s Song (Songs of Experience) : Summary

Summary

Background: “Nurse’s Song” is a pair of poems by William Blake, one from his “Songs of Innocence” collection and the other from his “Songs of Experience” collection. Each poem presents a contrasting perspective on the role of a nurse and the theme of childhood innocence versus the harsh realities of experience. Here’s a summary of “Nurse’s Song of Experience”:

Loss of Innocence: In “Nurse’s Song of Experience,” the nurse reflects on the passing of time and the loss of innocence. She watches as the children she once cared for in their youth have grown up and lost their childlike joy and freedom. The nurse initially encourages the children to come inside from their play, suggesting they should no longer indulge in childish pursuits. She sees the setting sun as a symbol of the end of innocence and playfulness.

Realization of Adulthood: The nurse’s tone softens as night falls and the children obediently enter. She realizes that the constraints of adulthood and societal expectations have taken away the children’s freedom and natural exuberance. In this realization, the nurse regrets her earlier insistence on discipline and wishes for the children to retain their innocence and happiness.

Finally, we can say that “Nurse’s Song of Experience” explores the loss of innocence and the transition from childhood to adulthood, highlighting the impact of societal norms and expectations on youth’s natural joy and spontaneity. It is a counterpart to the more idealized view of childhood in the “Nurse’s Song of Innocence,” where the nurse encourages the children to continue playing freely in the meadow.

Moral Lesson: The moral lesson of “Nurse’s Song of Experience” is that one’s past mistakes and challenges can lead to personal growth and wisdom.