Blind by Ella Wheeler Wilcox (1914)
The poem explores the theme of blindness, both physical and emotional. The speaker describes a person who has lost their sight, but still sees the beauty of nature through their imagination. The poem also touches on the idea that those who are physically blind may have a deeper inner vision, allowing them to see things that others cannot.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1914 · Genre: Poetry, Feminist Literature, Social Commentary · 285 words
First lines
Whatever a man may think or feel He can tell to the world and it hears aright; But it bids the woman conceal, conceal, And woe to the thoughts that at last ignite. She may serve up gossip or dwell on fashion, Or play the critic with speech unkind, But alas for the woman who speaks with passion! For the world is blind-for the world is blind.
It is woman who sits with her starved desire, And drinks to sorrow in cups of tears; She reads by the light of her soul on fire The secrets of love through lonely years: But out of all she has felt or heard Or read by the glow of her soul's white flame, If she dare but utter aloud one word- How the world cries shame! -how the world cries shame!
What this Textopian page supports
Blind is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1914 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: 1914 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Feminist Literature, Social Commentary, Philosophical Literature, Romantic Literature
- Length: 285 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Blind by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
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- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
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- How does this poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
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Similar titles
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Genres
- Poetry — The text is structured in verse and employs poetic devices such as rhyme and meter.
- Feminist Literature — The themes focus on the societal expectations and limitations placed on women.
- Social Commentary — The work critiques societal norms and the treatment of women.
- Philosophical Literature — The text explores deep questions about human nature and societal values.
Tags
Romance · Poetry · Love · Blindness · Metaphor · Spirituality · Optimism · Pessimism · Hope · Despair · Suffering · Trials