Two of William Blake's most influential works, The Songs of Innocence and The Songs of Experience, express Blake's world beliefs and his view of the two states of the human soul. The Songs of Innocence share a more adolescent, inexperienced view, while the Songs of Experience contain adult, and knowledgeable views. Blake shares both sides to the same poem so that a reader may have a higher understanding of the context. Determination of the correct point of view is crucial for a true interpretation, and Blake shares the same experiences using two points of view.
A comparison between “The Lamb” of Innocence, and “The Tyger” of Experience shows the actions of one who innocent, and one who is experienced.
Little lamb, I'll tell thee:
He is called by thy name,
For He calls Himself a Lamb.
“The Lamb” describes a child who takes new knowledge and believes faithfully without question. “The Lamb” was written for the state of innocence because innocence is defined as lack of knowledge. Learning is an important part of growing up, and one does not question the truth of new knowledge until we gain experience. The lamb and his ignorance is able to enjoy the freedoms of innocence. He is not wary of the choices he makes until he experiences their effects.
Tiger, tiger, burning bright
In the forests of the night,
What immortal hand or eye
Could frame thy fearful symmetry?
“The Tyger” is describing the actions of one who has gained experience. The tiger in the poem is in a dangerous setting: “forests of the night,” and has lived long enough to question the atmosphere around him. The new knowledge he hopes to gain will increase the chances of his survival. “Frame thy fearful symmetry” is referring to the tiger “framing,” or gaining new knowledge of his surroundings, where “symmetry” is the setting. The tiger has had more exposure to life's experiences and does not accept the way things are. He must question to find the truth, for the truth is what will keep him alive.
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