A Warning by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
The poem explores the theme of regret and longing after a missed opportunity for love. The speaker reflects on a past encounter with someone they were deeply drawn to, but failed to express their feelings. Now, they are left with only memories and a deep sense of loss. The poem conveys a strong emotional tone, emphasizing the importance of seizing moments of connection and intimacy.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1880 · Genre: Poetry, Cautionary Tale, Romance · 138 words
First lines
There was a flame, oh! such a tiny flame- One fleeting hour had spanned its birth and death, But for a silly child with playful breath Who fanned it into fury. It became A mighty conflagration. Ah, the cost! House, home, and thoughtless child alike were lost.
Lady beware. Fan not the harmless glow Of admiration into ardent love, Lean not with red curled smiling lips above The flickering spark of sinless flame, and blow, Lest in the sudden waking of desire Thou, like the child, shalt perish in the fire.
What this Textopian page supports
A Warning is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1880 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: 1880 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Cautionary Tale, Romance, Tragedy
- Length: 138 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Similar titles
- The Angel Of Patience by John Greenleaf Whittier
- Dorothea 1888 1912 Songs Of Hearth And Altar by Henry Van Dyke
- The Reason by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Portrait And Reality Sonnets by Henry Van Dyke
- Forgiveness by John Greenleaf Whittier
- The Sisters by John Greenleaf Whittier
Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse and employs poetic devices such as rhyme and meter.
- Cautionary Tale — The narrative serves as a warning, illustrating the consequences of seemingly innocent actions.
- Romance — The themes revolve around love and admiration, cautioning against their potential dangers.
- Tragedy — The story ends in loss and destruction, emphasizing the tragic outcomes of heedless behavior.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Women Authors · Social Commentary · Morality · Ethics · Philosophy · Free Verse · Symbolism · Allegory · Spirituality