Existence by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
The poem explores the idea that human existence is fleeting and ephemeral, yet simultaneously eternal and interconnected with the universe. It delves into the paradox of human life, where individuals are insignificant in the grand scheme, yet possess a profound impact on the world around them. The speaker grapples with the nature of existence, seeking to understand the purpose and meaning of life amidst its inherent contradictions.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1889 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Spiritual · 389 words
First lines
You are here, and you are wanted, Though a waif upon life's stair; Though the sunlit hours are haunted With the shadowy shapes of care. Still the Great One, the All-Seeing Called your spirit into being- Gave you strength for any fate. Since your life by Him was needed, All your ways by Him are heeded- You can trust and you can wait.
You can wait to know the meaning Of the troubles sent your soul; Of the chasms intervening 'Twixt your purpose and your goal; Of the sorrows and the trials, Of the silence and denials, Ofttimes answering to your pleas; Of the stinted sweets of pleasure, And of pain's too generous measure- You can wait the _why_ of these.
What this Textopian page supports
Existence is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1889 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: 1889 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Spiritual, Inspirational, Metaphysical
- Length: 389 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Existence by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Existence?
- How does this poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?
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Genres
- Poetry — The text is written in verse form with a rhythmic and lyrical quality.
- Philosophical — The themes explore existential questions and the meaning of life.
- Spiritual — The content references a higher power and spiritual journey.
- Inspirational — The tone is motivational, encouraging trust and patience in life's journey.
Tags
Philosophy · Poetry · Spirituality · Existentialism · Mysticism · Optimism · Pessimism · Life · Death · Immortality · Soul · Mind