Songs of Experience: To Tirzah 1794 - 1825

William Blake created this color etching titled, "To Tirzah" around 1794 as part of his "Songs of Experience" collection. The image combines text and illustration to explore themes of mortality, spirituality, and the constraints of the material world. Blake was a radical voice during a period of immense social and political change, in the wake of the French Revolution. His work often critiqued the Church of England and other institutions for repressing individual freedom and desire. Here, "To Tirzah" confronts traditional Christian views on the body and soul, viewing the material world as a source of suffering. The lower portion shows figures attending to a body that is being washed. Blake questioned the institutions of art and religion, seeking a more direct and personal spiritual experience. To fully appreciate his art, we must delve into the intellectual and social history of 18th century England, exploring dissenting religious movements and revolutionary political thought. Only then can we understand Blake's challenge to the social norms of his time.