Foes by Ella Wheeler Wilcox (1917)
The poem explores the idea that friends can be false and deceitful, hiding their true intentions behind a mask of friendship. The speaker describes how they were deceived by someone they trusted, who ultimately betrayed them. The poem expresses feelings of sadness, anger, and disillusionment, as the speaker struggles to come to terms with the betrayal.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1917 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Inspirational · 251 words
First lines
Thank Fate for foes! I hold mine dear As valued friends. He cannot know The zest of life who runneth here His earthly race without a foe.
I saw a prize. "Run," cried my friend; "Tis thine to claim without a doubt. " But ere I half-way reached the end, I felt my strength was giving out.
My foe looked on the while I ran; A scornful triumph lit his eyes. With that perverseness born in man, I nerved myself, and won the prize.
All blinded by the crimson glow Of sin's disguise, I tempted Fate. "I knew thy weakness! " sneered my foe, I saved myself, and balked his hate.
What this Textopian page supports
Foes is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1917 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: 1917 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Inspirational, Psychological, Motivational
- Length: 251 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
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Similar titles
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- Regret And Remorse by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse and employs poetic devices such as rhyme and meter.
- Philosophical — The themes explore deep reflections on the nature of adversity and personal growth.
- Inspirational — The narrative encourages readers to view challenges and adversaries as opportunities for self-improvement.
- Psychological — The text delves into the psychological impact of having foes and the internal motivations they provoke.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · Romanticism · Love Poems · Relationships · Emotions · Passion · Desire · Longing · Heartbreak · Sorrow · Melancholy