Conversation by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
The poem explores the theme of loneliness and disconnection in a marriage. The speaker describes a conversation between two people who are physically together but emotionally distant. They discuss mundane topics, avoiding any meaningful connection or intimacy. The poem highlights the emptiness and superficiality of their relationship, suggesting that they have lost touch with each other's emotions and desires.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1887 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Social Commentary · 814 words
First lines
We were a baker's dozen in the house-six women and six men Besides myself; and all of us had known Those benefits supposed to come from school and church and brush and pen, And opportunities of being thrown In contact with the cultured and the gifted people of the day. Being the thirteenth one among six pairs I deemed it wise to keep apart and let the others have their say: And from my vantage-place upon the stairs, Or in a corner, where I seemed to read, I listened for some word That would make life seem sweeter, or cast light Upon the goal toward which all footsteps wend: and this was what I heard Throughout each day and half of every night.
What this Textopian page supports
Conversation is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1887 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: 1887 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Social Commentary, Literary Fiction, Satire
- Length: 814 words
- Structure: 1 section, 9 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Conversation by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
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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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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse form, employing poetic devices and structure.
- Philosophical — The text explores deep questions about life, death, and the human condition.
- Social Commentary — The narrative critiques societal norms and the superficiality of everyday conversations.
- Literary Fiction — The work delves into the complexities of human interactions and relationships.
Tags
Poetry · Philosophy · Relationships · Communication · Love · Human Nature · Emotions · Psychology · Self-Discovery · Personal Growth · Mindfulness · Introspection