Meaning: The quote "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" by William Blake encapsulates the selfless and transcendent nature of love. William Blake was an English poet, painter, and printmaker who is considered a seminal figure in the Romantic Age of English literature. His works often explored themes of love, spirituality, and the human experience, and this quote is a prime example of his profound insight into the nature of love.

In this quote, Blake suggests that true love is not driven by self-interest or personal gain. Instead, it is motivated by a genuine concern for the well-being of another. Love, according to Blake, is not concerned with its own pleasure or care, but rather with the happiness and comfort of the beloved. This selfless quality of love is what sets it apart and elevates it to a higher plane of existence.

The line "but for another gives its ease" emphasizes the idea that love is inherently giving and sacrificial. It is not focused on what it can receive, but on what it can provide for the other person. This sentiment reflects the notion of agape love, or unconditional love, which is characterized by its altruistic nature and concern for the welfare of others.

Furthermore, the phrase "and builds a Heaven in Hell's despair" conveys the transformative power of love. Even in the darkest and most hopeless of circumstances, love has the ability to create a sense of peace, joy, and hope. It has the capacity to transcend suffering and bring about a sense of paradise amidst adversity. This imagery of building a heaven in the midst of despair portrays love as a force that can conquer even the most daunting of challenges.

In the context of Blake's broader body of work, this quote reflects his deep spiritual and mystical beliefs. He often explored the interplay between the material and the divine, and the transformative potential of love aligns with his visionary and transcendent view of the world. For Blake, love was not just a human emotion, but a profound spiritual force that had the ability to elevate individuals and bring them closer to the divine.

Overall, William Blake's quote captures the essence of selfless, transformative, and transcendent love. It serves as a poignant reminder of the capacity for love to transcend self-interest and bring about profound change in the lives of both the lover and the beloved. Through its eloquent expression of the nature of love, this quote continues to resonate with readers and inspire contemplation on the profound depths of human connection and compassion.

I hope this provides a comprehensive understanding of the quote and its significance in the context of William Blake's body of work. If you need further information or have any other questions, feel free to ask!