Nurses Song (Songs of Experience)

By William Blake

William Blake (1757-1827) was an English poet, painter, and visionary, whose work combines profound spiritual themes with intense, often mystical imagery. Blake’s unique style blends poetry and visual art, making him a pioneer figure in Romantic literature and art. His work, though underappreciated in his lifetime, is now celebrated for its originality and depth. The poem was first published in William Blake’s collection of poems “Songs of Experience” in 1794. It is a sister poem of the same name published in “Songs of Innocence”. However, we find a sharp contrast in the behavior of the nurse found in “Songs of Innocence”. Here, the nurse does not enjoy the children’s play, instead, she seems to resent the way the children remind her of her own childhood. The poem takes on a more cynical and resigned tone, reflecting the disillusionment and loss of innocence.

“When the voices of the children are heard on the green,

And whisperings are in the dale,

The days of my youth rise fresh in my mind,

My face turns green and pale

“Then come home, my children, the sun is gone down,

And the dews of night arise;

Your spring and your day are wasted in play,

And your winter and night in disguise.”

First Stanza

The poem begins with the nurse hearing the joyous sounds of children playing in a green field, similar to the imagery in the “Songs of Innocence” version. However, instead of feeling content or nostalgic, the nurse is reminded of her own youth, which now brings feelings of regret and sickness (“green and pale”). The use of “green” can signify jealousy or sickness, while “pale” suggests a loss of vitality.

Second Stanza

The nurse calls the children to come home, noting that the sun has set and the night has come. This marks the end of their playtime. She admonishes the children, suggesting that their time spent playing (representing their youth and innocence) is a waste. The “spring and day” symbolize the prime of life and innocence, while “winter and night “symbolize old age and death. “In disguise” indicates that the harsh realities of life (represented by winter and night) are hidden and not yet apparent to the children.

Conclusion

The poem reflects Blake’s exploration of the dual states of human existence and experience. There is certainly a move from one to the other, often accompanied by disillusionment and a sense of loss.