The Book of Urizen: Preludium
The Book of Urizen: Preludium - form Summary
Prose Poetry Frames Myth
This prelude uses Blake’s prose-poetry style to present a compact, mythic opening that establishes authority and setting rather than conventional meter. The passage reads like a narrated proclamation: a primeval priestly figure gains power and a solitary domain in the north, then invokes the Eternals to supply prophetic, dark visions. The prose-poem form concentrates symbolic content and a ritual voice, preparing readers for the longer mythic narrative.
Read Complete AnalysesOf the primeval Priests assum'd power, When Eternals spurn'd back his religion; And gave him a place in the north, Obscure, shadowy, void, solitary. Eternals I hear your call gladly, Dictate swift winged words, & fear not To unfold your dark visions of torment.
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