Effect by Ella Wheeler Wilcox (1896)
The poem explores the consequences of a person's actions and how they can have a lasting impact on their life and relationships. It highlights the idea that every action has an effect, whether good or bad, and that these effects can be far-reaching and long-lasting. The speaker reflects on past mistakes and regrets, realizing too late the harm caused to themselves and others.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1896 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Psychological · 115 words
First lines
An unkind tale was whispered in his ear. / He paused to hear. / His thoughts were food that helped a falsehood thrive, / And keep alive.
Years dawned and died. One day by venom's tongue / His name was stung. / He cried aloud, nor dreamed the lie was spawn / Of thoughts long gone.
Each mental wave we send out from the mind, / Or base, or kind, / Completes its circuit, then with added force / Seeks its own source.
Similar titles
- Which by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- I Am by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Realisation by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- He That Looketh by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- You And To Day by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- I Am by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse and employs poetic devices such as rhyme and meter.
- Philosophical — The themes explore the nature of thoughts and their impact, reflecting on deeper existential questions.
- Psychological — The narrative delves into the mental and emotional consequences of harboring certain thoughts.
- Drama — The plot involves conflict and emotional turmoil resulting from a whispered tale and its repercussions.
Tags
Philosophy · Poetry · Spirituality · Inspirational · Motivational · Self-Help · Personal Growth · Mindfulness · Consciousness · Thought Provoking · Introspection · Psychology
What this Textopian page supports
Effect is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1896 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: 1896 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Psychological, Drama
- Length: 115 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
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