A Solar Eclipse
The poem explores the theme of a romantic relationship that has ended abruptly, much like a solar eclipse where the moon suddenly blocks the sun's light. The speaker describes the beauty and joy they once shared with their lover, but now feels only darkness and despair. Through the metaphor of the eclipse, the poet conveys the suddenness and finality of the breakup, as well as the overwhelming sense of loss that remains.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1895 · Genre: Poetry, Romantic, Philosophical · 165 words
First lines
In that great journey of the stars through space About the mighty, all-directing Sun, The pallid, faithful Moon has been the one Companion of the Earth. Her tender face, Pale with the swift, keen purpose of that race Which at Time's natal hour was first begun, Shines ever on her lover as they run And lights his orbit with her silvery smile.
Sometimes such passionate love doth in her rise, Down from her beaten path she softly slips, And with her mantle veils the Sun's bold eyes, Then in the gloaming finds her lover's lips. While far and near the men our world call wise See only that the Sun is in eclipse.
What this Textopian page supports
A Solar Eclipse is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1895 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: 1895 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romantic, Philosophical, Nature, Metaphysical
- Length: 165 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for A Solar Eclipse by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering A Solar Eclipse?
- How does this poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- Loves Coming by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- The New Love by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Arrow And Bow by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- River And Sea by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Aristarchus The Name Of The Mountain In The Moon by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Just You by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
Genres
- Poetry — The text is written in verse with a focus on rhythm and imagery.
- Romantic — The themes revolve around love and celestial companionship.
- Philosophical — The work contemplates cosmic relationships and existential themes.
- Nature — The poem uses natural elements like the Sun, Moon, and Earth to convey its message.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · Romance · Nature · Astronomy · Eclipse · Solar System · Love · Passion · Desire · Longing · Beauty