Though the fact that a substantial amount of poetry is based on imagery is known, William Blake’s idea of using solely his inner vision or imagination is used less and less in contemporary literature. The use of imagination as the basis of poetic writing is not set only in the Romantic era, but in modern day scenarios. To write poetry only on the impulse of inspiration or something circumstantial, can limit your production. On the other hand, imagination can create more inspiration and referential conditions.
Imagination as Creative Device
Though Einstein was revered as one the greatest thinkers in the last one hundred years, his revelations were not based on mental searching, but on imagination. Blake’s genius was guided by a similar force when creating both his engravings and poetry. One of his main precepts of art was that to express the eternal, mystic aspects of life and beyond, one needs to follow his imagination. Any higher power of creativity expressed in poetry is wielded with imagination, so that the mind can be crossed. Both Einstein and Blake showed this in their immense work, though few could fathom the depth at which they both received their guidance.
Process of Imagination
Projecting your imagination consists of two categories: physical objects and ethereal (not in your perception at the time of writing) objects. Within the vision of these objects are also feelings or atmospheric qualities. When the mixture of the two aspects converge, poetry is at once poignant and subtle.
To set in motion your imagination with a physical object, concentrate on that the item and allow your mind to be loose. Allow your imagination to take its own course. Write directly what you see and what you feel. To practice your imagination with an ethereal object, use the same procedure. The only difference is that you put your attention on the object that is inside your mind. Closing your eyes is sometimes helpful for the ethereal objects.
In watching your imagination take form, be accepting. Do not defer an image on the basis of it being strange or peculiar. There are times when something obscure transforms into an image of almost unparalleled beauty. To watch your mind, instead of reacting to it, is the best way to approach your imagination.
The Stream of Imagination
These images, whether physical or ethereal, can be allowed to grow in sequence. Once a single object has come in your attention, allow your imagination to expand and elaborate. In your poem, you can write at each interval as the image develops. The feelings that sometimes are inherit in these images are also very useful for you to describe in your poem. These emotions in your portrayal of the images give your poem more gravity, and presents your poem in a more identifiable way to your audience(s).
Whether you are a new poet or a seasoned minstrel, your imagination can aid you in your inspiration. Though William Blake’s poetry was written in the Romantic era, his work is a timeless presentation of the human spirit. You never know where your own poetry will take you ….
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