The Shepherd

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 Shepherd” is a short yet profound poem that appeared in his collection of poems “Songs of Innocence” published in 1789. The poem exemplifies Blake’s exploration of innocence and pastoral themes, reflecting his vision of a harmonious relationship between humanity and nature. The poem captures the shepherd’s harmonious existence, attentiveness to the calls of lambs and ewes and the profound trust between the shepherd and flock. Blake’s lyrical verses resonate with themes of innocence, watchfulness, and a deeper, metaphysical appreciation for the pastoral landscape. The poem stands as a timeless ode to the beauty found in a serene and interconnected natural world.

How sweet is the shepherd’s sweet lot!
From the morn to the evening he strays;
He shall follow his sheep all the day,
And his tongue shall be filled with praise.

For he hears the lambs’ innocent call,
And he hears the ewes’ tender reply;
He is watchful while they are in peace,
For they know when their shepherd is nigh.

First Stanza

The poem opens with an exclamation, emphasizing the simplicity and joy inherent in a shepherd’s life. The repetition of ‘sweet’ underscores the purity and bliss of this existence. The shepherd wanders from morning to evening without any restriction. The word stray here implies a relaxed, unhurried movement throughout the day filled with freedom and contentment. The shepherd’s primary task is to look after his sheep, indicating a role of guidance and protection. The constancy of the day reflects dedication and vigilance. He is so full of contentment that he is always praising. This could be seen as praise for his life, his flock, and the natural world or praise to the Almighty for this blessed life. It aligns with Blake’s themes of innocence and spiritual fulfillment.

Second Stanza

Lambs are symbols of innocence and purity. The shepherd’s ability to hear their call emphasizes his attunement to their needs and his nurturing nature. He also hears ewe’s reply which shows the bond between the shepherd and his sheep and the deep connection they share. It also highlights mutual care and communication. The shepherd maintains vigilance to ensure the safety and tranquillity of his flock. This illustrates his sense of responsibility and love for his flock. Due to his vigilance, the flock remains calm and peaceful because they know that the shepherd is nearby. Their relationship is based on trust and reassurance which is a recurring theme in Blake’s “Songs of Innocence”.