Nurse's Song (Innocence): Structure & Language Techniques

Nurse’s Song (Innocence): Structure & Language Techniques

Sure, here’s a summary of “Nurse’s Song (Innocence): Themes & Linking Poems” and “Nurse’s Song (Innocence): Key Quotes” in the requested format:

Themes & Linking Poems

  • One of the dominant themes in ‘Nurse’s Song (Innocence)’ is innocence, where the nurse allows children to prolong their games in appreciation of the fleeting nature of their untainted happiness and childhood.
  • This poem also explores the theme of nature vs nurture. The natural world is seen as a place of joy and happiness that ought to be embraced, contrasting against the restrictive societal norms that are often imposed.
  • ‘Nurse’s Song (Innocence)’ links to ‘Nurse’s Song (Experience)’ in many ways, primarily the changing tones and attitudes depicted by the nurse character in each poem.

Key Quotes

  • When the voices of children are heard on the green…” - This quote symbolises childhood innocence and playfulness, linking to the inherent themes of the poem.
  • With sport, and hill and valley rings with mirth…” - Here, Blake personifies ‘hill and valley’, echoing the joyful sounds of children’s laughter, suggesting a harmony between mankind and nature.