Blake suggests that an incomplete or divided friendship can be more painful than open hostility. An enemy’s opposition is clear, whereas a person who offers friendship without full loyalty or commitment creates uncertainty about whether they can be trusted. The apparent bond can therefore conceal conflict rather than resolve it.

In the fuller passage, Los speaks these words as he acts for Albion’s sake, placing the statement alongside ideas of sacrifice, suffering and judgement. The contrast strengthens the sense that genuine friendship requires more than nominal attachment: it involves a willingness to act faithfully when circumstances become difficult.

The quotation is therefore concerned with the moral quality of friendship rather than simply the presence of friendly feeling. Blake presents divided allegiance as especially destructive because it combines the expectations of friendship with the effects of hostility.

Full quotation

“Half Friendship is the bitterest Enmity said Los
As he enterd the Door of Death for Albions sake Inspired
The long sufferings of God are not for ever there is a Judgment”