A Man's Reverie
The poem explores the inner turmoil of a man who has lost his beloved. He reminisces about their time together, recalling her beauty and charm. The speaker's emotions oscillate between sorrow, longing, and nostalgia, as he struggles to come to terms with his loss.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1887 · Genre: Poetry, Romance, Philosophical · 230 words
First lines
How cold the old porch seems. A dreary chill Creeps upward from the river at twilight, And yet, I like to linger here at night, And dream the summer tarries with us still.
The summer and the summer guests, or guest. (Men rarely dream in plurals.) Over there Beyond the pillars, stands the rustic chair, As bare and empty as a robin's nest.
No pretty head reclines its golden bands Against the back. No playful winds disclose Distracting glimpses of embroidered hose: No palm leaf waves in dainty, dangerous hands.
How cold it is! That star up yonder gleams A white ice sickle from the heavenly eaves. That bleak wind from the river sighs and grieves, Perchance o'er some poor fellow's broken dreams.
What this Textopian page supports
A Man's Reverie is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1887 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Date: 1887 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romance, Philosophical, Melancholic, Nature
- Length: 230 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The text is written in verse with a focus on rhythm and imagery.
- Romance — Themes of longing and lost love are central to the narrative.
- Philosophical — Reflects on the nature of dreams, fate, and the passage of time.
- Melancholic — The tone is somber and reflective, emphasizing a sense of loss and nostalgia.
Tags
Philosophy · Poetry · Reflection · Contemplation · Meditation · Introspection · Self-discovery · Personal growth · Spirituality · Mindfulness · Inner peace · Solitude