Hi,

I am studying Blake's Songs of Innocence and Experience, I absolutely love him, but I have to admit I'm starting to get a little confused.

I have the following quotes by him:
"Everything that lives is holy"
"Milton was a true poet because he was of the devil's party and didn't know it"
- He admitted to have read the bible in its "infernal and diabolical sense"
- He was very much religious and had a great knowledge of scripture, but opposed the established church. Still that doesn't explain to me his view of an oppressive God in The Book of Urizen/ The Poison Tree.
- The tiger is interpreted as a divine symbol by some critics and a diabolical one by others....

I am just very confused and if someone could explain Blake's spiritual views better to me, it would be a big help.

Thank you!

Best wishes,
Xx

Blake progressed during his life, but. like his parents. he was unorthodox. At one point along his journey he was a Swedenborgian and that may assist:

[en.wikipedia.org]