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"One must be master": patronage in Blake's 'Vala.' (William Blake)

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From: Studies in English Literature, 1500-1900
Date: 19930922
Author:Richey, William

Blake's dilemma in choosing between William Haley and Thomas Butts as his sole patron is recorded in his epic poem, 'Vala. ' Hayley's patronage had been pleasant at first, but quickly soured and Blake was aware that he was antagonizing Butts, whom he perceived as his true mentor. The character of Los in 'Vala' deals with this view and Blake realizes that the issue is not of material comfort, but creativity.

In his 25 April 1803 letter to Thomas Butts, Blake provides an intriguing, but somewhat puzzling description of a massive epic poem:

But none can know the Spiritual Acts of my ...

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