But One by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
The poem explores the theme of unrequited love and longing. The speaker describes a past romantic relationship that has ended, but they still yearn for their former lover. They acknowledge that the other person has moved on and found happiness with someone else, but the speaker cannot help but feel a deep sense of loss and sadness.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1897 · Genre: Poetry, Romance, Philosophical · 158 words
First lines
The year has but one June, dear friend; The year has but one June; And when that perfect month doth end, The robin's song, though loud, though long, Seems never quite in tune.
The rose, though still its blushing face By bee and bird is seen, May yet have lost that subtle grace -- That nameless spell the winds know Which makes it garden's queen.
Life's perfect June, love's red, red rose, Have burned and bloomed for me. Though still youth's summer sunlight glows; Though thou art kind, dear friend, I find I have no heart for thee.
What this Textopian page supports
But One is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1897 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: 1897 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romance, Philosophical, Nature
- Length: 158 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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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.
- Romance — Themes of love and emotional reflection are central to the work.
- Philosophical — The text contemplates the nature of time, beauty, and emotional experience.
- Nature — Frequent references to natural elements like the robin, rose, and winds.
Tags
Romance · Poetry · Love · Relationships · Marriage · Heartbreak · Longing · Desire · Passion · Sorrow · Melancholy · Nostalgia