Action by Ella Wheeler Wilcox (1893)
The poem explores the idea that action is the spark that sets the flame of achievement ablaze, and that it is the catalyst for progress and success. It emphasizes the importance of taking initiative and putting one's thoughts and ideas into tangible actions, rather than simply dreaming or thinking about them. The speaker argues that it is not enough to merely have noble intentions or aspirations, but rather one must take concrete steps towards realizing them.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1893 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophy, Inspirational · 202 words
First lines
For ever stars are winging Their swift and endless race; For ever suns are swinging Their mighty globes through space. Since by his law required To join God's spheres inspired, The earth has never tired, But whirled and whirled and whirled. For ever streams are flowing, For ever seeds are growing, Alway is Nature showing That Action rules the world.
And since by God requested To _be_, the glorious light Has never paused or rested, But travelled day and night. Yet pigmy man, unseeing The purpose of his being, Demands escape and freeing From universal force. But law is law for ever, And like a mighty lever It thrusts him tow'rd endeavour, And speeds him on his course.
What this Textopian page supports
Action is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1893 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: 1893 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophy, Inspirational, Nature, Spiritual
- Length: 202 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Action 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
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Discussion starters
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- How does this poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
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Similar titles
- Response by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Resolve by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Forward by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Ambitions Trail by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- The Empty Bowl by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Shrines by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
Genres
- Poetry — The text is structured in verse and employs rhyme and meter.
- Philosophy — The themes explore existential questions and the purpose of being.
- Inspirational — The content encourages action and perseverance, reflecting motivational themes.
- Nature — The text frequently references natural elements like stars, suns, and streams.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · Early 20th Century · Feminist · Inspirational · Motivational · Philosophical · Psychological · Self-Help · Spiritual · Personal Growth · Empowerment