“The Chimney Sweeper” Original Illustration by William Blake

This is the original illustrated print copy of Blake's "The Chimney Sweeper". Notice the bright colors used in contrast of the pieces dark undertones. The bottom showing children at play in a field rather than working as chimney sweepers like described in the poem. Why do  you think Blake did this?

Photo: “William Blake | Songs of Innocence: The Chimney Sweeper.” The Metropolitan Museum of Art, www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/347918. Accessed 10 Dec. 2025.