Be Not Content by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
The poem explores the theme of dissatisfaction and discontent in life. It describes a person who has achieved material success but remains unhappy and unfulfilled. The speaker argues that true happiness comes from within, and that one must cultivate a sense of inner peace and contentment to be truly satisfied with life.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1906 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Inspirational · 217 words
First lines
Be not content-contentment means inaction; / The growing soul aches on its upward quest; / Satiety is twin to satisfaction; / All great achievements spring from life's unrest.
The tiny roots, deep in the dark mould hiding, / Would never bless the earth with leaf and flower / Were not an inborn restlessness abiding / In seed and germ, to stir them with its power.
Were man contented with his lot forever, / He had not sought strange seas with sails unfurled, / And the vast wonder of our shores had never / Dawned on the gaze of an admiring world.
What this Textopian page supports
Be Not Content is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1906 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: 1906 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Inspirational, Self-Help
- Length: 217 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Be Not Content 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
Similar titles
- Preparation by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Attainment by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Climbing by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Opportunity by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Assertion by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Life Is Too Short by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
Genres
- Poetry — The text is written in verse form with a focus on rhythm and meter.
- Philosophical — The themes explore deep existential questions about contentment and the human condition.
- Inspirational — The work aims to motivate and inspire readers to strive for greater achievements.
- Self-Help — The text provides guidance on personal growth and overcoming complacency.
Tags
Inspiration · Motivation · Self-Help · Personal Development · Philosophy · Poetry · Inspirational Poetry · Uplifting · Empowerment · Mindfulness · Spirituality · Wellness