Acquaintance by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
The poem explores the theme of unrequited love and the pain it brings to those who experience it. The speaker reflects on a past acquaintance with someone they deeply loved but who did not return their feelings. The poem expresses the longing, sadness, and regret that linger long after the relationship has ended.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1889 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Literary · 157 words
First lines
Not we who daily walk the city's Not those who have been cradled in its heart, Best understand its architectural art Or realise its grandeur. Oft we meet Some stranger who has staid his passing feet And lingered with us for a single hour, And learned more of cathedral, and of tower, Than we who deem our knowledge quite complete.
Not always those we hold most loved and dear, Not always those who dwell with us, know best Our greater selves. Because they stand so near They cannot see the lofty mountain crest, The gleaming sun-kissed height, which fair and clear Stands forth-revealed unto the some-time guest.
What this Textopian page supports
Acquaintance 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, Philosophical, Literary, Urban, Reflective
- Length: 157 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhyme and meter to convey its themes.
- Philosophical — The text explores deep reflections on human understanding and perception.
- Literary — The writing style is sophisticated and focuses on the beauty of language and expression.
- Urban — The setting and references to the city and its architecture are central to the work.
Tags
Romance · Poetry · Love · Relationships · Nature · Imagery · Symbolism · Emotions · Introspection · Philosophy · Spirituality · Mystery