# William Blake

## Biography

William Blake was an English poet, painter, and printmaker, born in London in 1757. Primarily educated at home and later apprenticed as an engraver, he combined his artistic and poetic talents to create unique illuminated books. These works, such as "Songs of Innocence" and "Songs of Experience," often featured his own etchings and hand-colored illustrations, showcasing his distinctive style. Blake was a visionary, claiming to have experienced spiritual visions from childhood, which deeply influenced the philosophical and mystical themes in his "prophetic works." Despite his profound originality, Blake was largely unrecognized during his lifetime and often struggled financially. He married Catherine Boucher, who became his devoted assistant. Considered a seminal figure of the Romantic Age, Blake's art and poetry, though initially overlooked, are now celebrated for their profound imagination and unique spiritual depth. He died in 1827.

## Books

- [Songs of Innocence, and Songs of Experience](https://samolit.com/books/95828)