In 'William Blake, Painter and Poet,' Richard Garnett delves into the enigmatic world of a man whose creative genius forged a unique convergence of poetry and visual art. This analytical breath spans across Blake's oeuvre, presenting readers with a comprehensive exploration of his intricate symbolism, mythopoetic imagery, and prophetic visions. Garnett's literary dissection places Blake within the broader Romantic Age tapestry, contrasting his illuminated works with contemporaneous trends while decoding the individualistic expression and spiritual profundity embedded within Blake's artistry. Through persuasive prose and nuanced appraisals, Garnett situates Blake's output within the complex lattice of esoteric and revolutionary fervors of his time.Richard Garnett's treatise on William Blake comes from his own extensive career as a librarian, scholar, and biographer. His position at the British Museumamidst the very archives housing significant Blakean materialsendowed him with a proximity to primary sources and artifacts that likely informed his insights. Garnett's previous works on emblematic literary and historical figures undoubtedly enriched his perspective, allowing him to appreciate Blake's idiosyncratic path: from obscurity to posthumous eminence.'William Blake, Painter and Poet' is a seminal volume replete with intellectual rigor and empathetic interpretations, beckoning to admirers of Blake and enthusiasts of Romantic art and literature. Garnett's intimate acquaintance with Blake's dual legacies positions this book as a pivotal resource for grasping the full measure of Blake's brilliance. Scholars, students, and general readers drawn to the fusion of the visual and verbal realms will find in this work a profound invitation to witness the reclamation of a visionary artist's enduring influence.

Richard Garnett (1835-1906), a British scholar, librarian, and poet, was known for his extensive knowledge and contributions to literature and the humanities. As the son of the philologist Richard Garnett, he inherited a profound literary legacy that he continued with his academic and literary pursuits. Garnett spent a considerable part of his career, spanning over three decades, at the British Museum where he ultimately became the Keeper of Printed Books. His tenure at the museum allowed him invaluable access to a wealth of literary treasures, fostering his scholarly output. One of his noteworthy works is 'William Blake, Painter and Poet' which serves as a testament to his skill in literary criticism and his deep appreciation for the arts. This book showcases an insightful exploration of Blake's oeuvre, offering readers an intimate look at the mystical and revolutionary aspects that hallmark Blake's work. Garnett's literary style often reflects a didactic tone, aimed at enlightening his readers about the nuanced intersections between biography, literary production, and historical context. Beyond his work on Blake, Garnett was prolific, producing biographies, critical essays, and original poetry, thus cementing his place in the landscape of Victorian scholarship (Dictionary of National Biography, 1912).