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The Lamb Man and the Natural World Quotes
(line)
| Little Lamb who made thee (line 1) |
During the 18th and 19th centuries, the development of science led many philosophers to look for a "design" in the universe. From this perspective, people come to know God by knowing his creation, instead of the other way around.
| Gave thee life & bid thee feed. |
Like a kid with a wind-up toy, God gave creatures the means to live and then set them loose to roam around, eating to their heart's content. But the innocent perspective doesn't mention the chaotic, amoral, dog-eat-dog character of nature.
| Softest clothing wooly bright (line 6) |
The speaker thinks of the lamb not as it relates to nature, but as it relates to human society and its needs. He regards the lamb's wool as "clothing," like a really nice sweater.
| Gave thee such a tender voice, |
Throughout the poem, Blake personifies nature. The lamb has a "tender voice" like a singer, and the echoing valleys are like a church choir expressing its joy.
