Ascension by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
The poem explores the idea of spiritual ascension and the speaker's desire to transcend worldly desires and limitations. It describes the struggle between the material and spiritual aspects of human nature, with the speaker yearning for a higher plane of existence where they can be free from earthly constraints. The poem also touches on the theme of love, suggesting that true love is not bound by physicality but rather transcends it.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1907 · Genre: Spirituality, Poetry, Philosophy · 493 words
First lines
I have been down in the darkest water- Deep, deep down where no light could pierce; Alone with the things that are bent on slaughter, The mindless things that are cruel and fierce. I have fought with fear in my wave-walled prison, And begged for the beautiful boon of death; But out of the billows my soul has risen To glorify God with my latest breath.
There is no potion I have not tasted Of all the bitters in life's large store; And never a drop of the gall was wasted That the lords of Karma saw fit to pour, Though I cried as my Elder Brother before me, ‘Father in heaven, let pass this cup! ' And the only response from the still skies o'er me Was the brew held close for my lips to sup.
What this Textopian page supports
Ascension is listed on Textopian as a short story by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1907 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Date: 1907 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Spirituality, Poetry, Philosophy, Inspirational, Autobiographical
- Length: 493 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Ascension 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
- What should a reader notice first when entering Ascension?
- How does this short story by Ella Wheeler Wilcox fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Spirituality first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
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Genres
- Spirituality — The text explores themes of faith, divine communication, and the afterlife.
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing poetic devices and structure.
- Philosophy — It delves into existential questions and the nature of suffering and knowledge.
- Inspirational — The narrative aims to uplift and provide hope through overcoming adversity.
Tags
Spirituality · Poetry · Philosophy · Mysticism · Occultism · Esoteric · New Thought · Metaphysics · Inspiration · Motivation · Personal Growth · Self-Improvement