By Lewis McSparron
Every day, it is becoming more and more evident that people are forcefully intertwined with the vicious cycle of poverty. Not only this but the divide between the rich upper class and the working class is drastically increasing, and I believe that this is a problem that should not remain unspoken about and needs to be addressed.
Despite being set in London c1794 , William Blake’s ‘London’, illustrates societal problems that can be seen everyday and that is why I think ‘London’, is still relevant and important today. Throughout the poem, paradoxical descriptions of London are used to highlight the contradictory nature of societal structures. In addition to this, ‘mind forged manacles’, highlights the idea that societal norms are becoming too oppressive and our freedom is being severely restricted. These systems are supposed to provide stability and support for those who need it most, however, I do not believe that people are being provided with a sufficient amount of this. In the UK 14.4 million people are living in poverty, which is around 22% of the population , and this is outrageous. I believe that the government's job is to protect and support the people of their country, as they have been voted by the people into power. If they are incapable of this to the point that 14.4 million people are living in poverty, we need to make a change. This links to Blakes’ anti-establishment views. Throughout ‘London’ Blake criticises the three main power establishments at the time, The Church, Government and the Monarchy. First of all, looking at the government, post-Brexit has been nothing but controversial. For example, Boris Johnson held a party that broke his own Lockdown rules, when the public were under strict restrictions. As a prime minister, Johnson should set a good example for the nation. However, failed to do so and people across the country were left infuriated. Not only this, but for many years now the relevance of the British monarchy has been questioned. And in my opinion, they are simply a tourist attraction and another way to divide the upper and lower working class. Due to Britain being a Constitutional Monarchy, the royal family actually has little to no power in the country. This is why I believe they are solely a source of income. It is estimated that from 2021-2022 the British royal family helped boost the economy by 1.76 billion pounds, although this is very beneficial. The royal family can also contribute to the divide between the rich and the poor, through perceptions of privilege and wealth. The extravagant lifestyle and the sumptuous ceremonies, such as weddings and coronations emphasises the contrast between the monarchy and the struggles of the lower working class.
Why do they deserve to be superior simply because of the fact that they are born into this role ? Linking into this idea of royal superiority, the imagery of which, ‘blood runs down the palace walls’ demonstrates the naivety of the monarchy and how, whilst they are indulging in their wealth, many people are fighting for their lives, struggling to pay for the essentials to live. Ultimately, I believe that ‘London’ shows relevance and importance today, because it highlights the divide between the rich upper class and the lower working class. Not only this, but criticises the government and the monarchy. If we want equality, we must make a change. Edmund Burke once said, The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing. Speak up for what you believe is right and don’t be afraid to criticise those who hold influence.
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