At Bay by Ella Wheeler Wilcox (1889)
The poem explores the theme of a tumultuous relationship between two individuals who are intensely passionate about each other but also struggle with their own inner demons. The speaker describes the chaos and turmoil that ensues when they are together, likening it to a stormy sea. Despite the turmoil, the speaker is drawn to this person, suggesting an addictive quality to their love.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1889 · Genre: Poetry, Romance, Drama · 315 words
First lines
WIFE
Reach out your arms, and hold me close and fast. Tell me there are no memories of your past That mar this love of ours, so great, so vast.
What this Textopian page supports
At Bay 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, Romance, Drama, Psychological Fiction
- Length: 315 words
- Structure: 1 section, 16 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for At Bay 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 At Bay?
- How does this poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- Maurine by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Carlos by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Guilo by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Lippo by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- False by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Too Late by Edith Nesbit
Genres
- Poetry — The text is written in verse form with a focus on rhythm and meter.
- Romance — The themes revolve around love, relationships, and emotional intimacy.
- Drama — The dialogue and emotional tension between the characters suggest dramatic elements.
- Psychological Fiction — The internal conflicts and emotional struggles of the characters are central to the narrative.
Tags
Romance · Novel · Classic · Literary Fiction · American Literature · Women Authors · Poetic Prose · Tragic Love Story · Family Drama · Social Class · Marriage · Infidelity