Thou art a man God is no more Thy own humanity Learn to adore
William BlakeRead
Imagination is the real and eternal world of which this vegetable universe is but a faint shadow.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote suggests that true reality lies in our imagination, while the physical world is merely a reflection of that deeper truth.
William Blake emphasizes the significance of imagination as the primary and eternal realm of existence. He posits that the material universe we perceive through our senses is just a diminished reflection or shadow of the vibrant and profound reality that imagination embodies. This perspective invites us to delve deeper into our creative capacities, suggesting that our inner visions and thoughts hold greater significance than the transient physical world around us.
Themes
ImaginationRealityPhilosophyTruthCreativity
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can inspire artists and writers to embrace their creative visions in public discussions about art.
More from William Blake
All quotes βIn seed time learn, in harvest teach, in winter enjoy.
William BlakeRead
O thou who passest through our valleys in Thy strength, curb thy fierce steeds, allay the heat That flames from their large nostrils! Thou, O Summer, Oft pitchest here thy golden tent, and oft Beneath our oaks hast slept, while we beheld With joy thy ruddy limbs and flourishing hair.
William BlakeRead
Every Night and every Morn Some to Misery are born. Every Morn and every Night Some are born to Sweet Delight, Some are born to Endless Night.
William BlakeRead
As the caterpillar chooses the fairest leaves to lay her eggs on, so the priest lays his curse on the fairest joys.
William BlakeRead
He who would do good to another must do it in minute particulars.
William BlakeRead
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