Lois Spears by Edgar Lee Masters
The poem presents the epitaph of a woman named Lois Spears, who reflects on her life and identity. Born Lois Fluke, she is defined by her familial roles as a daughter, wife, and mother. Despite being born blind, she describes herself as the happiest of women, finding fulfillment in her domestic life and the care of her family. Her happiness stems from her devotion to her husband, Cyrus, and her children, Myrtle and Virgil. Lois emphasizes her ability to navigate her home and garden with a heightened sense of awareness, suggesting that her other senses compensate for her lack of sight. She conveys a sense of pride in her role as a homemaker, creating an environment of order and hospitality. The poem culminates in a note of gratitude, expressing a spiritual acknowledgment of her life and experiences. Overall, the work explores themes of identity, fulfillment, and the perception of reality beyond physical limitations, highlighting the strength and resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
By Edgar Lee Masters · First published 1916 · Genre: Poetry, Literary Fiction, Biography · 143 words
First lines
Here lies the body of Lois Spears, Born Lois Fluke, daughter of Willard Fluke, Wife of Cyrus Spears, Mother of Myrtle and Virgil Spears, Children with clear eyes and sound limbs --
(I was born blind)
I was the happiest of women As wife, mother and housekeeper, Caring for my loved ones, And making my home A place of order and bounteous hospitality:
For I went about the rooms, And about the garden With an instinct as sure as sight, As though there were eyes in my finger tips --
What this Textopian page supports
Lois Spears is listed on Textopian as a poem by Edgar Lee Masters, dated 1916 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Edgar Lee Masters
- Date: 1916 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Literary Fiction, Biography, Historical Fiction, Drama
- Length: 143 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Confusing
Good citation fit
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse form, utilizing poetic devices and structure.
- Literary Fiction — The themes explore personal identity, family, and domestic life, characteristic of literary fiction.
- Biography — The poem reflects on the life and identity of a specific individual, Lois Spears.
- Historical Fiction — The context and setting suggest a reflection on past societal roles and family dynamics.
Tags
Poetry Collection · American Literature · Free Verse · Symbolism · Psychological Insight · Character Study · Social Commentary · Midwestern Setting · Rural Life · Small Town America · Human Nature · Emotional Depth