Courage by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
The poem explores the idea that courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the willingness to act in spite of it. It describes a person who is paralyzed by fear, but finds the strength to overcome their anxieties and take action. The poem suggests that courage is a quality that can be developed through determination and perseverance, and that it is often the quiet, unassuming individuals who possess the most courage.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1914 · Genre: Poetry, Inspirational, Philosophical · 242 words
First lines
Whether the way be dark or light My soul shall sing as I journey on, As sweetly sing in the deeps of night As it sang in the burst of the golden dawn.
Nothing can crush me, or silence me long, Though the heart be bowed, yet the soul will rise, Higher and higher on wings of song, Till it swims like the lark in a sea of skies.
Though youth may fade, and love grow cold, And friends prove false, and best hopes blight, Yet the sun will wade in waves of gold, And the stars in glory will shine at night.
Though all earth's joys from my life are missed, And I of the whole world stand bereft, Yet dawns will be purple and amethyst, And I cannot be sad while the seas are left.
What this Textopian page supports
Courage 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, Inspirational, Philosophical, Spiritual
- Length: 242 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
- Spirit Of A Great Control by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Strength by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- The Universal Route by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Be Not Dismayed by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Obstacles by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Three Things by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
Genres
- Poetry — The text is written in verse and employs poetic devices such as rhyme and meter.
- Inspirational — The themes focus on resilience, hope, and the strength of the human spirit.
- Philosophical — The work explores existential themes and the individual's place in the universe.
- Spiritual — The text references a 'Great Central' and discusses faith and the soul's journey.
Tags
Inspiration · Motivation · Poetry · Self-Help · Personal Growth · Empowerment · Confidence · Resilience · Overcoming Fear · Perseverance · Mindfulness · Wellness