How does Blake's 'London' express ideas of oppression and authority?

Blake's London expresses ideas of oppression through a variety of means. Structurally, the poem's rigid rhyme scheme of ABAB, in tandem with the fixed structure of four quatrains, reflects how London constricts the narrator's sense of freedom. Additionally, London's use of the dramatic monologue focalises London's contribution to the hopelessness and hardship experienced by its inhabitants. The enjambment placed between 'How the Chimney-sweepers cry / Every blackning Church appalls' for instance, spatially illustrates the indifference of London's authority towards its citizens, and the Church's reaction to '[appal]' at the Chimney-sweepers discontent further emphasises the disparity between London's institutions and denizens.

Answered by Bradley B. English tutor

4410 Views

See similar English GCSE tutors

Related English GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What's the difference between dramatic and proleptic irony?


How would you write an introduction to an analysis of "The Woodsplurge"?


How does Seamus Heaney present 'childhood optimism' in the Poem 'Blackberry Picking'?


Explore the ways in which the writer of the great Gatsby presents corruption


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo
Cookie Preferences