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.
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
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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
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