A Strain of Music
The story revolves around a romantic triangle between three characters: a young and beautiful woman, a wealthy and middle-aged man, and a poor but talented musician. The woman is torn between her feelings for the two men, who represent different aspects of her life. The wealthy man offers her a life of luxury and comfort, while the musician inspires her artistic side. As she navigates her emotions, the strain of music becomes a metaphor for the turmoil in her heart.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1889 · Genre: Poetry, Romance, Drama · 330 words
First lines
In through the open window To the chamber where I lay, There came the beat of merry feet, From the dancers over the way. And back on the wings of the music That rose on the midnight air, My rare youth came and spoke my name, And lo! I was young and fair.
Once more in the glitter of gaslight I stood in my life's glad prime: And heart and feet in a rhythm sweet Were keeping the music's time. Like a leaf in the breeze of summer I drifted down the hall, On an arm that is cold with death and mould, And is hidden under the pall.
What this Textopian page supports
A Strain of Music 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, Romance, Drama, Reflective, Fantasy
- Length: 330 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for A Strain of Music by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The text is structured in verse with a rhythmic and lyrical quality.
- Romance — Themes of love, youth, and emotional connection are central to the narrative.
- Drama — The text explores intense emotions and dramatic life changes.
- Reflective — The narrative reflects on past experiences and the passage of time.
Tags
Romance · Poetry · Love · Music · Melody · Harmony · Soulful · Emotional · Introspective · Contemplative · Philosophical · Mystical