A Little Girl Lost

By William Blake

Children of the future Age, Reading this indignant page; Know that in a former time, Love! sweet Love! was thought a crime. In the Age of Gold, Free from Winter's cold, Youth and maiden bright, To the holy light, Naked in the sunny beams delight. Once a youthful pair, Fill'd with softest care: Met in garden bright, Where the holy light, Had just remov'd the curtains of the night. Then, in rising day, On the grass they play; Parents were afar, Strangers came not near; And the maiden soon forgot her fear. Tired with kisses sweet; They agree to meet, When the silent sleep Waves o'er heaven's deep; And the weary tired wanderers weep. To her father white, Came the maiden bright; But his loving look, Like the holy book, All her tender limbs with terror shook. Ona! pale and weak! To thy father speak: O the trembling fear! O the dismal care! That shakes the blossoms of my hoary hair!
Written: 1794-01-01

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Poem Details

Date Written: 1794-01-01
Date Published: 1794-01-01
Language: English
Keywords: Girl, Lost, Love, Fear, Age
Source: Songs of Experience
Publisher: W. Blake
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Analysis & Notes:
A narrative poem that explores the loss of innocence and the condemnation of love, reflecting the restrictive morals of society and the fear it instills.

Exploring Narrative Poetry

Narrative poetry is a form of poetry that tells a story, often making use of the voices of a narrator and characters as well. Unlike lyric poetry, which focuses on emotions and thoughts, narrative poetry is dedicated to storytelling, weaving tales that captivate readers through plot and character development.


Narrative poems are unique in their ability to combine the depth of storytelling with the expressive qualities of poetry. Here are some defining characteristics:

  • Structured Plot: Narrative poems typically have a clear beginning, middle, and end, following a plot that might involve conflict, climax, and resolution, much like a short story or novel.
  • Character Development: Characters in narrative poems are often well-developed, with distinct voices and personalities that drive the story forward.
  • Descriptive Language: The language used in narrative poetry is vivid and descriptive, painting a clear picture of the scenes and events, while also conveying the emotions and atmosphere of the story.

From ancient epics like "The Iliad" and "The Odyssey" to more modern narrative poems, this form continues to engage readers by blending the art of storytelling with the beauty and rhythm of poetry.