* Synergy of Visual and Poetic Language: Blake saw poetry and art as intertwined languages, each enhancing the other's meaning. He believed that illustrations could illuminate the abstract concepts and emotions expressed in his verse.
* Empowering the Reader: Blake didn't see his illustrations as mere decorations. He intended them to be active elements of the reading experience, prompting the reader to engage with the poem on a deeper level. He believed the images would spark the imagination and encourage a more personal interpretation of his words.
* Challenging Traditional Methods: Blake rejected the conventional practice of printing illustrations separately from the text. He felt that this separation weakened the impact of both the poetry and the art. By integrating them, he aimed to create a unified and immersive experience for the reader.
* Expressing Complex Concepts: Some of Blake's poems deal with complex theological and philosophical ideas that are difficult to express solely through words. He used images to visualize these abstract concepts, making them more accessible to the reader.
* Personal Vision: Blake's drawings were deeply personal, reflecting his own unique worldview and artistic sensibilities. They offered a window into his inner world and his understanding of the universe.
Ultimately, Blake's integration of art and poetry was a testament to his belief in the power of both mediums to convey truth, beauty, and spiritual insight. He wanted his readers to experience his work not just as a literary product, but as a multi-sensory and deeply personal journey of discovery.