London is the place for meeee Flashcards
(9 cards)
What is the tone of the poem?
It’s bleak, angry, and critical of societal control and suffering in London.
What’s the significance of the repetition in “In every…”?
It emphasizes that suffering is widespread and affects all layers of society.
How does Blake present the Church and State?
As corrupt and oppressive—criticizing institutions meant to protect people.
Why is the poem set in a structured, regular form (quatrains, ABAB rhyme)?
It reflects the rigid control in society and contrasts with the chaos described.
What are the central themes?
Oppression, loss of innocence, control, corruption, and human suffering.
“mind-forged manacles” – What does this metaphor suggest?
People are mentally trapped by societal expectations, not just physically oppressed.
“And the hapless soldier’s sigh / Runs in blood down palace walls” – What’s the meaning?
It links war to political power—suggesting that those in power cause suffering and bloodshed.
“The youthful harlot’s curse” – How does this show decay in society?
It represents lost innocence and moral corruption; even youth is tainted.
“charter’d street” and “charter’d Thames” – What’s the effect?
It shows how even nature (like the river) is controlled and owned, symbolizing loss of freedom.
