Desolation by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
The poem explores the theme of desolation and despair, describing a state of emotional numbness and isolation. The speaker feels disconnected from the world around them, unable to find comfort or solace in nature or human relationships. The tone is melancholic and introspective, conveying a sense of hopelessness and desperation.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1881 · Genre: Poetry, Romance, Tragedy · 240 words
First lines
I think that the bitterest sorrow or pain Of love unrequited, or cold death's woe, Is sweet compared to that hour when we know That some grand passion is on the wane;
When we see that the glory and glow and grace Which lent a splendor to night and day Are surely fading, and showing the gray And dull groundwork of the commonplace;
When fond expressions on dull ears fall, When the hands clasp calmly without one thrill, When we cannot muster by force of will The old emotions that came at call;
When the dream has vanished we fain would keep, When the heart, like a watch, runs out of gear, And all the savor goes out of the year, Oh, then is the time -- if we can -- to weep!
What this Textopian page supports
Desolation is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1881 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: 1881 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romance, Tragedy, Philosophical
- Length: 240 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
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- Respite by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse and employs poetic devices such as rhyme and meter.
- Romance — The central theme revolves around the emotions and experiences related to love and its decline.
- Tragedy — The narrative explores themes of sorrow, loss, and the inevitable decline of passion.
- Philosophical — The text delves into existential reflections on the nature of emotions and the human condition.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Romanticism · Nature · Desolation · Loneliness · Melancholy · Sorrow · Grief · Loss · Mourning