Imagery Poetry 1- London

"Marks of weakness, marks of woe." line 4

William Blake's poem, London, conveys a very depressing tone. It seems that all the citizens of London are imprisoned by something. Based on the first two lines, "I wander through each chartered street, Near where the chartered Thames does flow," I think the government is controlling and oppressing all of its' people. By using the word chartered in reference to the streets and the Thames river, I think this demonstrates the range of control possessed by the government.  Blake uses imagery to describe the emotions and feelings of despair the people posses. Through lines such as "In every cry of every man" and "Marks of weakness, marks of woe," we can feel the unhappiness in their hearts. I think Blake is trying to convey the hardships of living in London at every level, regardless of social class. From the "Runs in blood down Palace walls," to "How the youthful Harlot's curse," it is evident how class isn't a factor. I think that the "Marks of weakness" represent the fear the citizens possess about the powers hanging over them. As a result to the control, all the citizens live an unhappy and oppressed life.