Talk:Songs of Innocence and of Experience (1826)/Songs of Experience/The Sick Rose

"The Sick Rose" by William Blake refers to Blake's belief that sex should be joyous, not forbidden and secret. Women haunted by fears of violation cannot experience their natural "crimson joy." Both sexes can regain health through trust and a more honest understanding of both sexes. Both identities fear violation and castration but enjoy sex in a climate of joy and open love--not over protecting nor over possessive. This is a great example of early feminism and criticism of sex roles.