Friendship by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
The poem explores the theme of friendship, describing it as a beautiful and enduring bond between two people. It highlights the importance of having someone who understands and supports you through life's struggles and joys. The speaker reflects on how friends can bring happiness and comfort, even in times of sorrow and loneliness. The poem also touches on the idea that true friendships are rare and precious, and should be cherished and nurtured.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1909 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Inspirational · 241 words
First lines
Dear friend, I pray thee, if thou wouldst be proving / Thy strong regard for me, / Make me no vows. Lip-service is not loving; / Let thy faith speak for thee.
Swear not to me that nothing can divide us- / So little such oaths mean. / But when distrust and envy creep beside us / Let them not come between.
Say not to me the depths of thy devotion / Are deeper than the sea; / But watch, lest doubt or some unkind emotion / Embitter them for me.
Vow not to love me ever and for ever, / Words are such idle things; / But when we differ in opinions, never / Hurt me by little stings.
What this Textopian page supports
Friendship is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1909 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: 1909 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Inspirational, Romantic, Classical Literature
- Length: 241 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Friendship 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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Similar titles
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- Art And Heart by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- We Two by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Together by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Love Is Enough by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- On Friendship by Edward Bulwer Lytton
Genres
- Poetry — The text is written in verse form with a focus on rhythm and meter.
- Philosophical — The themes explore deep questions about the nature of friendship and trust.
- Inspirational — The content aims to inspire and provide guidance on maintaining strong relationships.
- Romantic — The language and themes touch on emotional and intimate aspects of human connections.
Tags
Poetry · Relationships · Emotions · Human Connection · Love · Trust · Loyalty · Bonding · Intimacy · Support · Care · Empathy