A Suggestion by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
The poem explores the idea that a person's thoughts and desires can shape their reality. The speaker suggests that if one thinks positively and focuses on their goals, they can bring them into being. The poem also touches on the theme of personal responsibility, implying that individuals have the power to create their own destiny through their thoughts and actions.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1889 · Genre: Poetry, Social Commentary, Humor · 227 words
First lines
As I go and shop, sir! If a car I stop, sir! Where you chance to sit, And you want to read, sir! Never mind or heed, sir! I'll not care a bit.
For it's now aesthetic To be quite athletic. That's our fad, you know. I can hold the strap, sir! And keep off your lap, sir! As we jolting go.
If you read on blindly, I shall take it kindly, All the car's not mine. But, if you sit and stare, sir! At my eyes and hair, sir! I must draw the line.
If the stare is meant, sir! For a compliment, sir! As we jog through town, Allow me to suggest, sir! A woman oft looks best, sir! When she's sitting down.
What this Textopian page supports
A Suggestion 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, Social Commentary, Humor, Romance, Aestheticism
- Length: 227 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for A Suggestion 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 Suggestion?
- 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
- The Need Of The World by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Answer by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- The Answer by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- An Answer by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Why by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Words And Thoughts by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse and employs rhyme and meter.
- Social Commentary — The poem addresses social norms and behaviors, particularly in public settings.
- Humor — The tone and content include light-hearted and witty observations.
- Romance — There are subtle references to interactions between genders and potential romantic interest.
Tags
Poetry · Philosophy · Spirituality · Inspirational · Motivational · Self-Help · Personal Growth · Mindfulness · Wellness · Optimism · Hope · Faith