In "William Blake: The Man" by Charles Gardner, readers are taken on an insightful journey into the life and mind of one of Britain's most enigmatic poets and artists, William Blake. With meticulous research and an eloquent writing style, Gardner presents a comprehensive exploration of Blake's life, shedding light on the man behind the timeless works that continue to captivate readers and scholars alike.
One of the book's strengths lies in Gardner's ability to contextualize Blake's life within the vibrant backdrop of late 18th-century London. Through detailed descriptions of the cultural, political, and social milieu of the time, the author creates a vivid tapestry against which Blake's personal struggles and artistic development are woven. This historical depth adds a layer of understanding, allowing readers to appreciate not only Blake's genius but also the societal forces that molded him.
Gardner's portrayal of Blake is highly nuanced, painting a complex and multi-faceted picture of the artist. He presents Blake as a deeply spiritual individual at odds with the dogma and hypocrisy of organized religion, often finding solace and inspiration in his unconventional beliefs. The author explores Blake's visionary experiences and his connections to the mystical, revealing the profound influence these had on his artistic creations.
Moreover, Gardner delves into Blake's immense creativity, examining his poetry, paintings, and illustrations with keen insight. By analyzing specific works and tracing their evolution, the author effectively conveys the depth and breadth of Blake's artistic genius. Readers gain a clear understanding of the themes that preoccupied the poet and the revolutionary ways in which he brought them to life through his art.
While Gardner's extensive research and attention to detail make the book a scholarly and informative read, it may feel dense at times for those with a more casual interest in Blake. The inclusion of extensive quotes and excerpts from Blake's works, while adding authenticity, can also interrupt the narrative flow. Yet, these minor drawbacks are outweighed by the depth of knowledge and understanding Gardner imparts to his readers.
In "William Blake: The Man," Charles Gardner offers an illuminating and captivating portrayal of a literary icon. With meticulous research and a genuine passion for his subject, the author paints a rich and multi-dimensional portrait of William Blake, delving into the man behind the art. This book is a must-read for both Blake enthusiasts and those seeking to explore the life and work of this enigmatic figure, unlocking the secrets that continue to make him a timeless and influential presence in the world of literature and art.
First Page:
WILLIAM BLAKE: THE MAN All Rights Reserved
[Illustration: THE BURIAL OF MOSES.
Reproduced by kind permission of Mr Sydney Morse. ]
WILLIAM BLAKE THE MAN
BY CHARLES GARDNER
AUTHOR OF "VISION AND VESTURE," "THE REDEMPTION OF RELIGION," ETC.
"The men that were with me saw not the vision" DANIEL
LONDON: J. M. DENT & SONS LIMITED NEW YORK: E. P. DUTTON & CO. MCMXIX
To MONICA
Preface
This book is an attempt to trace the mental and spiritual growth of William Blake as disclosed in his works. After meditating on these for some years an image of the man has risen in my mind. This I have tried to present with the aid of such biographical details as are to be found in Gilchrist's Life . My warm thanks are due to Mr and Mrs Sydney Morse for permission to reproduce their beautiful Prayer of the Infant Jesus , and The Burial of Moses . The photographs were taken by Mr Albert Hester. Also I must thank Mr J. M. Dent for the two designs from an original and invaluable Job series in his possession. The rest of the illustrations are from the Print Room of the British Museum.
C. G.
CONTENTS
PAGE
TITLE PAGE 3
DEDICATION 5
PREFACE 7
CONTENTS 9
ILLUSTRATIONS 10
CHAPTER
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