1. Vivid Sensory Imagery: Blake utilizes strong, evocative language to paint vivid pictures in the reader's mind. He appeals to all senses, creating a visceral experience. For example, in "The Tyger," he describes the creature's "burning bright" eyes, "fearful symmetry," and "frame of fire," creating a haunting and awe-inspiring image.
2. Personification and Symbolism: Blake frequently personifies abstract concepts and employs powerful symbols to express complex emotions. In "The Lamb," he uses the innocence and gentleness of the lamb to symbolize purity and spiritual grace. In "The Clod and the Pebble," the clod and pebble represent different perspectives on love and compassion.
3. Repetition and Rhyme: Blake masterfully uses repetition and rhyme to emphasize key ideas and create a sense of rhythm and intensity. For example, in "The Sick Rose," the repetition of "rose" and "joy" reinforces the theme of love's corruption and loss.
4. Contrast and Paradox: Blake often uses contrasting images and paradoxical statements to create a sense of emotional tension and complexity. In "The Sun-Flower," the sunflower's "golden head" facing the sun is juxtaposed with its eventual "death," highlighting the ephemeral nature of life and beauty.
5. Direct Address: Blake frequently uses direct address, speaking directly to the reader or a specific entity. This creates a personal and intimate connection, making the reader feel part of the poem's emotional journey.
6. Use of Contradictions and Irony: Blake's use of contradictions and irony often adds an extra layer of emotion to his work. For example, in "The Tyger," he asks, "Did He who made the Lamb make thee?" This ironic question suggests a clash between the divine and the terrifying, creating a sense of awe and fear.
7. Use of Color and Light: Blake's use of color and light is often symbolic and evocative. For example, in "The Lamb," the "white" color of the lamb represents purity and innocence. In "The Tyger," the "fire" and "burning bright" imagery create a sense of intensity and awe.
Examples:
* "The Tyger": "Burning bright" "fearful symmetry" "frame of fire" "Did He who made the Lamb make thee?"
* "The Lamb": "Little Lamb who made thee?" "I a child and thou a lamb, We are called by his name."
* "The Sick Rose": "O Rose thou art sick" "The invisible worm" "That flies in the night"
* "The Sun-Flower": "Ah, Sun-flower! weary of time" "Who can tell the seed?" "Golden head" "Pale death"
Overall, Blake's emotive language is characterized by its vivid imagery, powerful symbols, and direct engagement with the reader. He uses language as a tool to explore complex emotions and spiritual truths, leaving a lasting impact on the reader.