Pygmalion and the Image

"Pygmalion and the Image" by William Morris is a narrative poem that explores themes of love, artistry, and the divine, written in the early 20th century. This work, included in his larger collection "The Earthly Paradise," reflects the Victorian fascination with classical legends, specifically the story of Pygmalion, a sculptor who falls in love with his own creation, a statue that eventually comes to life through divine intervention. Morris's poem delves into the spiritual connection between the creator and the created, emphasizing the beauty of craftsmanship and the nature of desire. The poem follows Pygmalion, a talented sculptor from Cyprus, who becomes disillusioned with the women around him and obsesses over his creation, an exquisite statue of a woman. As he realizes his deep longing for his artwork to be alive, he prays to Venus for help. In response, the goddess grants his wish, bringing the statue to life. The narrative explores Pygmalion's emotional turmoil, his dedication to his craft, and the fulfillment he finds in love, juxtaposed with his initial madness and isolation. The poem culminates in Pygmalion’s realization of his happiness with the living woman he once sculpted, highlighting themes of longing, fulfillment, and the transformative power of art. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

William Morris was an English textile designer, poet, artist, writer, and socialist activist associated with the British Arts and Crafts movement. He was a major contributor to the revival of traditional British textile arts and methods of production. His literary contributions helped to establish the modern fantasy genre, while he helped win acceptance of socialism in fin de siècle Great Britain.