Earthly Pride by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
The poem explores the theme of pride and its destructive nature. It describes a person who is consumed by earthly pride, believing themselves to be superior to others. This pride leads them to neglect their spiritual well-being, ignoring the warnings of conscience and the whispers of the soul. As a result, they become isolated from humanity and ultimately suffer a downfall. The poem serves as a cautionary tale, warning readers of the dangers of unchecked pride and the importance of humility.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1897 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Didactic · 42 words
First lines
How baseless is the mightiest earthly pride, The diamond is but charcoal purified, The lordliest pearl that decks a monarch's breast Is but an insect's sepulchre at best.
What this Textopian page supports
Earthly Pride is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1897 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: 1897 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Didactic, Metaphysical, Literary
- Length: 42 words
- Structure: 1 section, 1 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
- Sun Shadows by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Acquaintance by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- The Depths by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- The Contract by Emily Dickinson
- Desire by Emily Dickinson
- A Man by Emily Dickinson
Genres
- Poetry — The text is written in verse form with a focus on rhyme and meter.
- Philosophical — The themes explore the nature of pride and the transient value of material wealth.
- Didactic — The work aims to teach a moral lesson about the futility of earthly pride.
- Metaphysical — The text delves into abstract concepts about the essence and transformation of objects.
Tags
Romance · Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Love · Nature · Spirituality · Philosophy · Free Verse · Imagery · Symbolism · Mysticism