A Picture by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
The poem explores the theme of unrequited love and heartbreak through a vivid description of a picture that serves as a catalyst for the speaker's emotional turmoil. The speaker describes the picture, which depicts a romantic scene, and how it evokes feelings of longing and sorrow in them.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1889 · Genre: Poetry, Pastoral, Religious · 89 words
First lines
I strolled last eve across the lonely down; One solitary picture struck my eye: A distant ploughboy stood against the sky -- How far he seemed above the noisy town!
Upon the bosom of a cloud the sod Laid its bruised cheek as he moved slowly by, And, watching him, I asked myself if I In very truth stood half as near to God.
What this Textopian page supports
A Picture is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1889 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: 1889 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Pastoral, Religious, Philosophical
- Length: 89 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for A Picture by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
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- Un Rencontre by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Friendship After Love by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- September by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- A Reminiscence by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- An Old Heart by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse and employs poetic devices such as rhyme and meter.
- Pastoral — The imagery and themes focus on rural life and nature, typical of pastoral literature.
- Religious — The text contemplates proximity to God, indicating a spiritual or religious theme.
- Philosophical — The work reflects on existential questions and the human condition.
Tags
Poetry · Love · Romance · Relationships · Emotions · Sentimental · Nostalgia · Melancholy · Longing · Yearning · Heartfelt · Sincere