Earnestness by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
The poem explores the idea that earnestness is a vital quality for achieving success and happiness in life. It emphasizes the importance of sincerity, honesty, and authenticity in one's words and actions. The speaker argues that insincerity and hypocrisy can lead to downfall, while genuine effort and dedication can bring triumph.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1903 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophy, Inspirational · 168 words
First lines
The hurry of the times affects us so In this swift rushing hour, we crowd and press And thrust each other backward as we go, And do not pause to lay sufficient stress Upon that good, strong, true word, Earnestness.
In our impetuous haste, could we but know Its full, deep meaning, its vast import, oh, Then might we grasp the secret of success! In that receding age when men were great, The bone and sinew of their purpose lay In this one word. God likes an earnest soul -- Too earnest to be eager. Soon or late It leaves the spent horde breathless by the way, And stands serene, triumphant at the goal.
What this Textopian page supports
Earnestness is listed on Textopian as a novel by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1903 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Novel
- Author: Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Date: 1903 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophy, Inspirational, Classical Literature
- Length: 168 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Earnestness by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
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- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse and employs poetic devices such as rhyme and meter.
- Philosophy — The themes explore deep, reflective ideas about the nature of earnestness and success.
- Inspirational — The content aims to motivate and inspire readers to adopt earnestness in their pursuits.
- Classical Literature — The writing style and thematic focus are reminiscent of classical literary traditions.
Tags
Philosophy · Poetry · Inspiration · Motivation · Self-Help · Personal Growth · Spirituality · Mindfulness · Positive Thinking · Optimism · Well-being · Happiness