Infant Sorrow, also known as "My Mother Gave Me Life," is a poem written by William Blake as part of his collection Songs of Innocence and Experience. The poem presents a newborn's perspective on the joys and struggles of life, as well as the complex relationship between the newborn and its mother.
The poem begins with the newborn crying out in sorrow at the pain and discomfort of being born. The infant expresses its frustration at being forced out of the comfort and security of the womb into the harsh and unfamiliar world. This is symbolized by the "dungeon" in which the infant finds itself, representing the confinement and isolation of the newborn's experience.
Despite this initial sorrow, the infant also recognizes the love and care of its mother, who "gave [it] life." The mother's actions are described as "tender" and "kind," suggesting the deep bond and affection between the two. This relationship is further underscored by the use of the word "nurse," which not only refers to the act of breastfeeding but also connotes a sense of nurturing and protection.
As the poem progresses, the infant begins to recognize the larger context of its existence and the limitations of its own perspective. It acknowledges that it is "small" and "helpless," and that it is dependent on its mother for sustenance and support. This realization is accompanied by a sense of acceptance and resignation, as the infant recognizes the inherent struggles and challenges of life.
In the final stanza, the infant reflects on the cyclical nature of life and the continuity of the human experience. It recognizes that it will grow and change, and that one day it will also become a parent and "nurse" its own children. This recognition of the interconnectedness of life serves as a comforting and hopeful conclusion to the poem.
Overall, Infant Sorrow presents a poignant and nuanced portrayal of the joys and struggles of life from the perspective of a newborn. Through its use of imagery and language, Blake captures the raw emotions and observations of the infant, as well as the complex relationship between the infant and its mother. The poem ultimately offers a glimpse into the universal human experience and the cyclical nature of life.