Poem Analysis - Three Things To Remember

A Song of Innocence Lost

William Blake's "Three Things To Remember" is a deceptively simple poem, short in length yet vast in implication. It presents a series of stark pronouncements about the interconnectedness of all living things and the consequences of cruelty. The poem's tone is initially declarative, almost instructional, but quickly shifts to a tone of warning and moral judgment. Through vivid imagery and symbolic representation, Blake suggests that harming even the smallest creature has profound repercussions on the human spirit and the natural world.

The Reverberating Harm: Central Theme

One of the main themes is the interconnectedness of all beings. Blake presents a world where the suffering of a small creature directly impacts larger entities like "Heaven" and "cherubs." The first stanza illustrates this vividly: "A Robin Redbreast in a cage,/ Puts all Heaven in a rage." This implies that the confinement and suffering of even the smallest creature can disrupt the harmony of the universe. The poem conveys a world where humans and animals are not separate but are part of a web of life.

Defiling Innocence: Key Theme

Another important theme is the loss of innocence and its devastating effects. The robin, skylark, and wren are all symbols of natural beauty and freedom. By emphasizing the act of confining or wounding these creatures, Blake highlights the destructive power of human actions on innocent life. "A skylark wounded on the wing/Doth make a cherub cease to sing" indicates a direct correlation between the suffering of innocent creatures and the loss of joy and harmony in the celestial realm.

Echoes of Empathy: Key Theme

Empathy and its absence forms a central theme of the poem. The final pronouncement, "He who shall hurt the little wren/Shall never be beloved by men," directly links cruelty to a lack of human connection and affection. This stanza emphasizes that empathy is not merely an emotional response but a fundamental aspect of human relationships. Blake suggests that cruelty towards animals is a sign of a deeper moral failing, one that isolates the perpetrator from human companionship.

Symbolism Soaring and Still

The poem is rich in symbolism. The robin redbreast often symbolizes vitality and joy. Its confinement suggests the suppression of natural instincts and happiness. The skylark, with its soaring flight and melodious song, symbolizes freedom and inspiration. Wounding it represents the stifling of creativity and the loss of spiritual elevation. The wren, a small and unassuming bird, symbolizes vulnerability and innocence. The act of hurting it highlights the moral bankruptcy of inflicting harm on the defenseless. These images are not just literal descriptions of harmed creatures; they are powerful metaphors for the destruction of innocence and the disruption of natural harmony.

Concluding Thoughts

"Three Things To Remember" is a powerful, cautionary poem that transcends its simple form. By focusing on the consequences of harming small, innocent creatures, Blake offers a profound meditation on the interconnectedness of all life, the importance of empathy, and the destructive nature of cruelty. The poem serves as a timeless reminder that even the smallest acts of violence can have far-reaching and devastating consequences, not only for the victim but also for the perpetrator and the world around them. It suggests that true humanity lies in our ability to protect and cherish the innocent.