Poem Analysis - Blind Mans Buff

A Winter Scene of Merriment and Mishap

William Blake's "Blind Man's Buff" presents a lively, detailed snapshot of a winter evening game among young people. The poem initially evokes a warm, convivial atmosphere, rich with sensory details of the season and the comforts of home. However, the tone shifts as the game unfolds, revealing elements of mischief, potential for injury, and ultimately, a broader commentary on the necessity of rules and order. The poem progresses from a celebration of youthful play to a reflection on the consequences of unchecked freedom and the need for societal structures.

From Cozy Gathering to Chaotic Game

The poem opens with a scene of idyllic domesticity. Blake uses vivid imagery to paint a picture of winter's beauty juxtaposed with the warmth of the hearth. "Silver snow decks Susan's clothes, / And jewel hangs at th' shepherd's nose" establishes the cold exterior world, while the "blushing bank," "hearth so red," and "walls so fair" create a sense of refuge and comfort. The communal spirit is further emphasized by the "merry can of nut-brown ale" and the gathering of "lad and lass," creating a picture of innocent, youthful joy. This initial atmosphere of carefree pleasure sets the stage for the game to begin.

The Double-Edged Sword of Unrestrained Liberty

One of the main themes explored in "Blind Man's Buff" is the potential danger inherent in unchecked freedom. As the game progresses, the initial fun devolves into mischievous actions and accidental harm. The "lasses prick the lads with pins," Roger's prank that causes Dolly to fall, and Dick's intentional tripping of the blindfolded Hodge all demonstrate how unchecked playfulness can lead to pain and disorder. This theme culminates in the accidental injury to Hodge, highlighting the serious consequences that can arise from a lack of boundaries. The poem suggests that while liberty and enjoyment are valuable, they must be tempered by rules and consideration for others.

Symbols of Blindness and the Need for Guidance

The central symbol in the poem is, of course, Blind Man's Buff itself. The blindfolded player represents the human condition when deprived of clear vision and guidance. Will, and later Roger, stumble around, vulnerable and susceptible to trickery. This blindness can be interpreted as a metaphor for ignorance or lack of awareness, both of which can lead to mistakes and accidents. The act of cheating, exemplified by Roger peeking through his blindfold, further underscores the theme of moral failing and the disruption of fair play. The "crimson drops" that stain the ground serve as a stark reminder of the real-world consequences of these actions, suggesting that even seemingly harmless games can have serious repercussions.

The Call for Order and Societal Rules

The poem concludes with a didactic message emphasizing the importance of rules and laws. The speaker argues that just as the game of Blind Man's Buff requires regulations to prevent injury and unfairness, society as a whole needs laws to maintain order and protect its citizens. The lines, "Lawless they liv'd, till wantonness / A 1000 nd liberty began t' increase, / And one man lay in another's way; / Then laws were made to keep fair play," clearly articulate this point. Ultimately, Blake suggests that the seemingly simple game serves as a microcosm of society, demonstrating the need for structures that balance individual freedom with the well-being of the community. "Blind Man's Buff," therefore, becomes a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked liberty and a plea for the establishment of just and equitable laws.