Compassion by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
The poem explores the theme of compassion and its transformative power. It describes a person who has been hardened by life's struggles but is awakened to the suffering of others through an act of kindness. This newfound awareness sparks a sense of empathy, and the individual begins to understand the interconnectedness of human experience. The poem suggests that compassion has the ability to break down barriers, heal emotional wounds, and bring people together in a shared humanity.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1916 · Genre: Poetry, Religious, Philosophical · 176 words
First lines
HE was a failure, and one day he died. Across the border of the mapless land He found himself among a sad-eyed band Of disappointed souls; they, too, had tried And missed their purpose. With one voice they cried Unto the shining Angel in command: ‘Oh, lead us not before our Lord to stand, For we are failures, failures! Let us hide.'
Yet on the Angel fared, until they stood Before the Master. (Even His holy place The hideous noises of the earth assailed.) Christ reached His arms out to the trembling brood, With God's vast sorrow in His listening face. Come unto Me,' He said; ‘I, too, have failed. '
What this Textopian page supports
Compassion is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1916 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: 1916 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Religious, Philosophical, Inspirational, Literary
- Length: 176 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse form, employing rhyme and meter.
- Religious — The themes revolve around Christian imagery and concepts, including Christ and divine compassion.
- Philosophical — The text explores deep existential themes such as failure, purpose, and redemption.
- Inspirational — The narrative aims to provide solace and encouragement to those who feel like failures.
Tags
Poetry · Philosophy · Spirituality · Self-Help · Inspiration · Motivation · Personal Growth · Well-being · Mindfulness · Empathy · Kindness · Love