Circumstance by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
The poem explores the idea that circumstances shape who we are and our experiences in life. It argues that people are not inherently good or bad, but rather they become so due to the circumstances they face. The speaker suggests that if one were to switch places with someone else, they would likely behave similarly, implying that morality is relative and dependent on situation.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1915 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical Literature, Inspirational · 241 words
First lines
Talk not to me of souls that do conceive Sublime ideals, but, deterred by Fate And bound by circumstances, sit desolate, And long for heights they never can achieve.
It is not so. That which we most desire, With _understanding_, we at last obtain, In part or whole. I hold there is no rain, No deluge, that can quench a heavenly fire.
Show me thy labour, I straightway will name The nature of thy thoughts. Who bends the bow, And lets the arrow from the strained string go, Strikes somewhere near the object of his aim.
We build our ships from timbers of the brain; With products of the soul we load the hold; Where lies the blame if they bring back no gold, Or if they spring a leak upon the main?
What this Textopian page supports
Circumstance is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1915 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: 1915 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical Literature, Inspirational, Classical Literature
- Length: 241 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The text is written in verse form with a focus on meter and rhyme.
- Philosophical Literature — The themes revolve around fate, willpower, and existential musings.
- Inspirational — The content encourages self-reliance and determination.
- Classical Literature — The writing style and themes are reminiscent of classical literary traditions.
Tags
Romance · Poetry · Love · Nature · Philosophy · Spirituality · Mystery · Feminism · Individuality · Free Will · Destiny · Fate