Always at Sea by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
The poem explores the theme of a romantic relationship that has ended, with the speaker reflecting on the memories of their time together. The title "Always at Sea" suggests a sense of turmoil and uncertainty, which is reflected in the speaker's emotions as they struggle to come to terms with the loss. The poem expresses a deep longing for the past and a desire to hold onto the memories of the relationship, even though it has ended.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1897 · Genre: Poetry, Spiritual, Philosophical · 202 words
First lines
Always at sea I think about the dead. / On barques invisible they seem to sail / The self-same course; and from the decks cry ‘Hail'! / Then I recall old words that they have said, / And see their faces etched upon the mist- / Dear faces I have kissed.
Always the dead seem very close at sea. / The coarse vibrations of the earth debar / Our spirit friends from coming where we are. / But through God's ether, unimpeded, free, / They wing their way, the ocean deeps above- / And find the hearts that love.
What this Textopian page supports
Always at Sea is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1897 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: 1897 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Spiritual, Philosophical, Romantic, Nautical
- Length: 202 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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- Work identity for Always at Sea by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
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- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Genres
- Poetry — The text is written in verse form with a focus on rhythm and meter.
- Spiritual — Themes of the afterlife, spirits, and the connection between the living and the dead are central.
- Philosophical — Explores existential questions about life, death, and the nature of existence.
- Romantic — Contains emotional and sentimental reflections on loved ones who have passed away.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Romance · Love · Nature · Sea · Ocean · Imagery · Symbolism · Free Verse · Lyric Poetry