An Episode by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
The poem explores the theme of a past romantic encounter that has left an indelible mark on the speaker's life. The episode is described as a fleeting moment of passion and intimacy that has had a lasting impact on the speaker's emotions and psyche.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1886 · Genre: Romance, Poetry, Historical Fiction · 204 words
First lines
Along the narrow Moorish street A blue-eyed soldier strode. (Ah, well-a-day) Veiled from her lashes to her feet She stepped from her abode, (Ah, lack-a-day).
Now love may guard a favoured wife Who leaves the harem door; (Ah, well-a-day) But hungry hearted is her life When she is one of four. (Ah, lack-a-day.)
If black eyes glow with sudden fire And meet warm eyes of blue- (Ah, well-a-day). The old, old story of desire Repeats itself anew. (Ah, lack-a-day.)
When bugles blow the soldier flies- Though bitter tears may fall (Ah, lack-a-day). _A Moorish child with blue_, _blue eyes_ _Plays in the harem hall_. (Ah, well-a-day.)
What this Textopian page supports
An Episode is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1886 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: 1886 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Romance, Poetry, Historical Fiction, Drama, Cultural
- Length: 204 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for An Episode 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
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering An Episode?
- How does this poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Romance first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- The Tryst by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- The Other Woman by Madison Cawein
- Warned by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- La Belle Zoraide by Kate Chopin
- Secrets by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Too Late by Edith Nesbit
Genres
- Romance — The central theme revolves around a romantic encounter between a blue-eyed soldier and a veiled woman.
- Poetry — The work is written in a poetic format with a rhythmic and lyrical style.
- Historical Fiction — The setting and cultural references suggest a historical context, particularly within a Moorish environment.
- Drama — The narrative includes dramatic elements such as desire, separation, and emotional conflict.
Tags
Romance · Drama · Tragedy · Love Story · Marriage · Infidelity · Deception · Betrayal · Heartbreak · Sorrow · Guilt · Shame