The Parable of the Wise and Foolish Virgins 

Curator: Looking at this work by William Blake, "The Parable of the Wise and Foolish Virgins," I immediately feel a sense of otherworldly sorrow, almost biblical in its scale. The figures seem caught between hope and despair. Editor: Indeed. Blake, born in 1757, was deeply interested in symbols and imagery. The virgins, with their lamps, reference the biblical story about preparedness and vigilance. The lamps themselves are potent symbols of faith and spiritual readiness. Curator: It’s fascinating how he renders the figures—ethereal, almost translucent. Is this watercolour, perhaps? There’s something haunting about their expressions, too, some determined while others filled with panic. Editor: Blake's use of watercolour really does amplify the dreamlike quality. Notice how the 'wise' virgins stand together, lamps held high like beacons, while the others are scattered, chaotic. A very clever use of composition. Curator: Yes, the composition seems to amplify this dramatic contrast. There’s a large figure blowing a horn in the sky...a divine pronouncement, perhaps? It definitely feels as if time is of the essence. Editor: Precisely. The figure in the sky is a symbol for urgency, resonating across centuries. Blake used these timeless symbols to comment on the importance of internal reflection and individual spiritual journeys. Curator: What a powerful reminder. Blake compels us to contemplate our own preparedness for the unexpected. Editor: Absolutely. It's a reflection on inner illumination and a cautionary tale that remains strikingly relevant.