1. Home
  2. Education
  3. Quotations

The Clod and the Pebble

William Blake

By Simran Khurana, About.com

"Love seeketh not itself to please,
Nor for itself hath any care,
But for another gives its ease,
And builds a heaven in hell's despair."

So sung a little clod of clay,
Trodden with the cattle's feet;
But a pebble of the brook
Warbled out these meters meet:

"Love seeketh only Self to please,
To bind another to its delight,
Joys in another's loss of ease,
And builds a hell in heaven's despite."

Did you like this poem? Why not receive free classic poems by email? SUBSCRIBE

Explore Quotations

About.com Special Features

A Smarter Future

Tips that will help finance your education, excel in the classroom, and advance your career. More >

How to Ace the GRE

Being well prepared is the first step; here are more essential suggestions. More >

  1. Home
  2. Education
  3. Quotations
  4. Poem Lyrics Poetry Quotes
  5. Poem Lyrics
  6. Clod and the Pebble>

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.