Poem Analysis - The Two Songs

Introduction: Dueling Perspectives on Virtue

William Blake's "The Two Songs" presents a stark contrast between idealized virtue and a cynical, almost nihilistic, worldview. The poem juxtaposes the harmonious message of an angel with the bitter pronouncements of a devil, creating a sense of moral ambiguity. The initial tone is one of hopeful simplicity, which sharply transitions to darkness and condemnation. Through these opposing voices, Blake challenges conventional notions of mercy, pity, and peace, suggesting a more complex and perhaps unsettling reality.

The Angel's Ideal: A World Defined by Harmony

One of the primary themes in this poem is the nature of virtue itself. The angel's song directly equates mercy, pity, and peace with "the world's release." This suggests a utopian vision where these qualities are inherently positive and capable of liberating humanity. The imagery associated with the angel reinforces this idea: the "springing" day, the "new-mown hay," and the "sun" all contribute to a picture of natural harmony and abundance. The form, which is simple, reinforces the message, suggesting a lack of complexity.

The Devil's Counterpoint: Prosperity Rooted in Misery

In direct opposition to the angel, the devil argues that mercy and pity are dependent on the existence of suffering. His logic is that if everyone were happy and prosperous ("happy as ye"), these virtues would become obsolete. More significantly, the devil claims that "mutual fear brings peace" and that "misery's increase/Are mercy, pity, and peace." This statement directly contradicts the angel's sentiment. By saying that they depend on misery, the Devil turns mercy, pity and peace into selfish concepts, concepts that rely on the suffering of others to exist.

Symbolism of Light and Darkness

The contrasting imagery of light and darkness is crucial to understanding the poem's message. The angel sings as the sun rises, suggesting enlightenment and hope, and the hay is still golden-brown. Conversely, the devil's curse is followed by the setting sun and a "frown" from the heavens, symbolizing despair and divine disapproval. However, the fact that the sun does set after the devil's curse might suggest that darkness inevitably follows any attempt to create light or goodness. It raises the uncomfortable question of whether achieving a perfect world, as envisioned by the angel, is fundamentally impossible, leading to eventual ruin.

Contrasting Voices, Enduring Questions

In conclusion, "The Two Songs" is a concise yet powerful exploration of contrasting moral perspectives. By presenting the angel's idealistic pronouncements alongside the devil's cynical counter-arguments, Blake encourages readers to question simplistic notions of virtue and consider the darker realities that may underpin seemingly positive concepts. The poem doesn't offer easy answers; instead, it leaves us pondering the complex relationship between happiness and suffering, and whether true peace can ever be achieved.