Poem Analysis - Mock On Mock On Voltaire Rousseau

A Defiant Stance Against Skepticism

William Blake's "Mock On, Mock On, Voltaire, Rousseau" is a short but powerful poem that expresses a defiant rejection of Enlightenment skepticism. The poem's tone is initially dismissive and challenging, directly addressing the titular figures with scorn. However, it transitions into a confident affirmation of spiritual and divine truth, showcasing Blake's unwavering faith in the face of rationalist critique. This shift in mood underscores the poem's central argument: that mocking spiritual belief is ultimately futile.

The Shadow of the Enlightenment

Blake was deeply critical of the Enlightenment's emphasis on reason and empirical observation, which he saw as limiting human perception and stifling spiritual understanding. Voltaire and Rousseau, prominent figures of the Enlightenment, were known for their questioning of religious dogma and traditional authority. Blake viewed their skepticism as a dangerous trend that threatened to undermine the foundations of faith and imagination. His poem directly confronts their legacy, positioning it as ultimately powerless against the enduring strength of spiritual truth. He was suspicious of the mechanistic view of the universe that was developing and that's part of what he is reacting against here.

The Futility of Skepticism and the Persistence of Faith

One of the central themes of the poem is the futility of skepticism when confronted with the divine. The opening lines establish this immediately, asserting that the mockery of Voltaire and Rousseau is "all in vain." This is further emphasized by the image of throwing "sand against the wind," a symbolic representation of their efforts being easily dispersed and rendered ineffective. The wind, in this context, could be interpreted as representing divine power or the force of spiritual truth that overcomes rational critique. Connected to this is the theme of the persistence of faith. Despite the attempts of the mockers, the "gems" (representing spiritual insights) continue to shine "in Israel's paths," suggesting that faith remains a guiding light for believers.

Symbols of Divine Truth and Scientific Limitations

The poem uses several powerful symbols to convey its message. The image of "sand" is recurring and significant. Initially, it represents the arguments of the skeptics – numerous but ultimately insubstantial. However, it undergoes a transformation, becoming "gems" that reflect "beams divine." This transformation symbolizes the inherent value of spiritual insights that are overlooked by rationalists. The reference to "Israel's tents" evokes a sense of divine promise and spiritual sanctuary, suggesting that those who remain faithful will find refuge and enlightenment. Furthermore, "The Atoms of Democritus/And Newton's Particles of Light" is a striking image. These represent the pinnacle of rational science, the core building blocks of the world understood through reason. But they are just "sands upon the Red Sea shore," implying that even the greatest scientific discoveries are insignificant compared to the vastness and power of the divine. Are those atoms and particles being swept away by the Red Sea, suggesting the triumph of faith over reason? Or do they just exist side-by-side, highlighting the differences between rational and spiritual understanding of the world?

A Triumph of Imagination

In conclusion, "Mock On, Mock On, Voltaire, Rousseau" is a passionate defense of spiritual belief against the rising tide of Enlightenment skepticism. Blake uses vivid imagery and a defiant tone to assert the enduring power of faith and imagination. The poem argues that rational critique, though seemingly powerful, is ultimately powerless against the divine. Through the transformation of sand into gems and the shining tents of Israel, Blake creates a powerful vision of spiritual truth triumphing over the limitations of reason, leaving the reader with a sense of the poet’s profound belief in the power of spiritual vision.