What is the theme of the poem On Another's Sorrow?
What is the theme of the poem On Another's Sorrow?
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The central theme of the poem revolves around empathy and compassion. Blake questions whether it is possible to witness the sorrow of others without feeling a sense of shared sorrow. Relating to this, the poem also proves how sorrow is a universal experience, affecting humans and other natural creatures alike. The imagery of a falling tear and the weeping child symbolize the various forms of suffering that people, from infants to parents, may endure. The poem also suggests the notion of divine compassion. Blake presents the idea that a benevolent divine being would not remain indifferent to the sorrows of small creatures and infants. And thus, the divine has the strength to alleviate and ultimately eradicate human suffering.
On Another’s Sorrow Summary