Madness and Blake's Myth

This book offers a deep exploration of madness in relation to William Blake's poetry, revealing its therapeutic and metaphorical significance throughout his works.

This book presents the first comprehensive exploration of madness and its profound influence on the poetry of William Blake. For many years, Blake's artistic legacy was overshadowed by allegations of insanity. While contemporary critics have made strides in appreciating his work without this bias, there remains a risk that this vindication could overlook critical aspects of his poetry. The nuanced relationship between his mental state and his creative output invites deeper analysis.

In Madness and Blake's Myth, Paul Youngquist posits that Blake's mythic framework is intrinsically linked to themes of madness. Throughout his oeuvre, from early lyrical pieces to later epic-prophecies, Blake consistently portrays the fragmentation of the mind, echoing the hallmarks of mental illness. This thematic exploration reveals how Blake's artistic expression is not merely a reflection of his psyche but also a commentary on the broader human experience of mental distress.

By integrating contemporary clinical and philosophical perspectives, Youngquist illustrates how Blake transforms personal suffering into poetic form. In this context, madness serves as a metaphor for existential fallibility. Despite its literary complexity, Blake's mythology fulfills specific psychological needs, acting as a personal defense mechanism against the very madness it depicts. Madness and Blake's Myth offers a thought-provoking reassessment of both Blake's literary genius and the troubled mind that shaped it.