Before and After
The poem explores the idea that a person's soul remains unchanged despite the passage of time and the experiences they have in life. It describes how the speaker's soul was the same before and after various events, including birth, death, and romantic love. The poem suggests that the soul is eternal and unchanging, and that its essence remains intact regardless of what happens to the physical body.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1893 · Genre: Poetry, Romance, Tragedy · 323 words
First lines
Before I lost my love, he said to me: 'Sweetheart, I like deep azure tints on you. ' But I, perverse as any girl will be Who has too many lovers, wore not blue.
He said, 'I love to see my lady's hair Coiled low like Clytie's -- with no wanton curl. ' But I, like any silly, wilful girl, Said, 'Donald likes it high,' and wore it there.
What this Textopian page supports
Before and After is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1893 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: 1893 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romance, Tragedy, Drama
- Length: 323 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Before and After 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
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Similar titles
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- Remembered by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
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- By And Bye by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse and employs poetic devices such as rhyme and meter.
- Romance — The central theme revolves around love and relationships.
- Tragedy — The narrative explores themes of loss, regret, and emotional pain.
- Drama — The emotional intensity and personal conflict are key elements of the work.
Tags
Romance · Poetry · Love · Relationships · Heartbreak · Longing · Nostalgia · Melancholy · Sorrow · Grief · Loss · Memory