I Know Not by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
The poem explores the theme of ignorance and the limitations of human knowledge. The speaker asserts that they do not know the answers to life's mysteries, including the nature of God, the universe, and humanity's place in it. They acknowledge the futility of seeking absolute truth and instead embrace the beauty of uncertainty.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1884 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Inspirational · 175 words
First lines
Death! I know not what room you are abiding in, But I will go my way, Rejoicing day by day, Nor will I flee or stay For fear I tread the path you may be hiding in.
Death! I know not, if my small barque be nearing you; But if you are at sea, Still there my sails float free; ‘What is to be will be. ' Nor will I mar the happy voyage by fearing you.
Death! I know not, what hour or spot you wait for me; My days untroubled flow, Just trusting on, I go, For oh, I know, I know, Death is but Life that holds some glad new fate for me.
What this Textopian page supports
I Know Not is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1884 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: 1884 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Inspirational, Spiritual
- Length: 175 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
- Thoughts by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- The Question by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- The Answer by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Understood by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- The Need Of The World by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- The Universal Route by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
Genres
- Poetry — The text is structured in verse and employs poetic devices such as rhyme and meter.
- Philosophical — The themes explore existential questions about life and death.
- Inspirational — The tone is uplifting and encourages a positive outlook on life and death.
- Spiritual — The work suggests a belief in an afterlife and a greater fate.
Tags
Philosophy · Spirituality · Self-Discovery · Poetry · Mystery · Inspirational · Motivational · Personal Growth · Mindfulness · Contemplation · Introspection · Existential Crisis