Final answer:
William Blake's 'Songs of Innocence and Experience' illustrate the contrasting states of the human soul and emphasize the value of imagination and individual perception within the context of social and moral issues.
Step-by-step explanation:
The companion volumes Songs of Innocence and Songs of Experience reveal William Blake's intricate exploration of the dualities within human existence and the contrasting states of the human soul. Blake juxtaposes the innocence of childhood, characterized by joy and purity, with the experience of adulthood marked by complexity and corruption. Through his poetry, Blake delves into themes of morality, society, and the loss of innocence, while demonstrating his belief in the importance of the imagination as a means to transcend the limitations imposed by rational thinking and societal conventions.
Blake's use of these two thematic volumes greatly contributed to Romantic literature, highlighting the significance of individual perception and emotional depth. His works reflect his concerns with issues of freedom, social justice, and the spiritual and prophetic roles of the poet. Specifically, Blake's poetry is often read as a response to the tumultuous social changes of the Industrial Revolution and the rigid moral codes of the era.