Whose Shall the Welcome Be?
The novel explores the theme of women's rights and independence through the story of a young woman named Mary. Mary lives with her uncle and aunt in a small town in New England after being orphaned at a young age. She is expected to conform to traditional feminine roles, but she desires autonomy and a career. When her uncle dies, Mary inherits his property and must navigate the complexities of business and law as a woman in a patriarchal society. Through her struggles and triumphs, the novel highlights the limitations placed on women during this time period and advocates for their economic independence and equality.
By Elizabeth Stuart Phelps Ward · First published 1899 · Genre: Poetry, Religious, Philosophical · 230 words
First lines
H. W. L.
The wave goes down, the wind goes down, The gray tide glitters on the sea, The moon seems praying in the sky. Gates of the New Jerusalem (A perfect pearl each gate of them) Wide as all heaven swing on high; Whose shall the welcome be?
The wave went down, the wind went down, The tide of life turned out to sea; Patience of pain and grace of deed, The glories of the heart and brain, Treasure that shall not come again; The human singing that we need, Set to a heavenly key.
What this Textopian page supports
Whose Shall the Welcome Be? is listed on Textopian as a poem by Elizabeth Stuart Phelps Ward, dated 1899 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Elizabeth Stuart Phelps Ward
- Date: 1899 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Religious, Philosophical, Elegy, Inspirational
- Length: 230 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The text is structured in verse with a rhythmic and lyrical quality.
- Religious — Themes of spirituality and references to the New Jerusalem and the soul are prominent.
- Philosophical — Explores deep themes such as life, death, and the human condition.
- Elegy — The tone and content reflect mourning and remembrance of a lost soul.
Tags
Feminism · Social Commentary · Labor Rights · Industrialization · Capitalism · Economic Inequality · Women's Roles · Workplace Conditions · Factory Life · Immigration · Urbanization · Poverty