Anticipation. Ellis Bell
The poem explores themes of beauty, hope, and the passage of time. It reflects on the contrast between the vibrancy of nature and the inevitable decline of youth. The speaker questions why one clings to the joys of youth when faced with the sorrows of life. They observe that many peers have succumbed to despair, suggesting that an untried death might have been preferable. The speaker, however, embraces hope, recognizing that earthly joys are fleeting and often lead to disappointment. They choose to anchor their desires in the promise of eternity rather than chase transient pleasures. This resolve allows them to confront life's challenges with strength and tranquility. Hope becomes a guiding force, transforming the perception of life's mysteries and providing solace amid grief. The speaker expresses a willingness to face death unafraid, bolstered by hope's presence. Ultimately, the poem conveys a message of resilience, emphasizing that the anticipation of a rewarding destiny can empower the spirit against present adversities.
By Charlotte Brontë · First published 1849 · Genre: Poetry, Romantic, Victorian · 518 words
First lines
How beautiful the earth is still, To thee -- how full of happiness? How little fraught with real ill, Or unreal phantoms of distress! How spring can bring thee glory, yet, And summer win thee to forget December's sullen time! Why dost thou hold the treasure fast, Of youth's delight, when youth is past, And thou art near thy prime?
When those who were thy own compeers, Equals in fortune and in years, Have seen their morning melt in tears, To clouded, smileless day; Blest, had they died untried and young, Before their hearts went wandering wrong, -- Poor slaves, subdued by passions strong, A weak and helpless prey!
What this Textopian page supports
Anticipation. Ellis Bell is listed on Textopian as a poem by Charlotte Brontë, dated 1849 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Charlotte Brontë
- Date: 1849 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romantic, Victorian
- Length: 518 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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- Work identity for Anticipation. Ellis Bell by Charlotte Brontë
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Genres
- Poetry — Considering 'ANTICIPATION. ELLIS BELL' is actually a poem written by Charlotte Brontë, with a focus on introspection and exploring emotional states.
- Romantic — Brontë's work often delves into complex human emotions and impassioned writing, indicative of Romantic literature.
- Victorian — As part of the Victorian era, the theme and style of the poem reflect the characteristics of Victorian literature, including its focus on morality and social values.
Tags
romance · gothic · Victorian · literature · identity · gender · social class · family · love · betrayal · isolation · self-discovery