William Blake (1757-1827) was an English poet during the British Romantic literary period who wrote extensively about God, nature, and the beauty of the human imagination. In 'A Poison Tree' the speaker allows their hatred and anger to grow, like the poisonous tree. As you read, take notes on Blake's use of symbolism throughout the poem. This poetry is for grade 10 readers. "A Poison Tree” by William Blake (1794) is in the public domain.