In an Old Art Gallery
The poem explores the theme of nostalgia and the passing of time. The speaker describes an old art gallery where paintings of the past hang, evoking memories of love, beauty, and joy. The atmosphere is one of melancholy and longing, with the speaker reflecting on the fleeting nature of life and art.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1917 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Psychological · 166 words
First lines
Before the statue of a giant Hun, There stood a dwarf, misshapen and uncouth. His lifted eyes seemed asking: ‘Why, in sooth, Was I not fashioned like this mighty one? Would God show favour to an older son Like earthly kings, and beggar without ruth Another, who sinned only by his youth? Why should two lives in such divergence run?'
Strange, as he gazed, that from a vanished past No memories revived of war and strife, Of misused prowess, and of broken law. That old Hun's spirit, in the dwarf re-cast, Lived out the sequence of an earthly life. _It was the statue of himself he saw_!
What this Textopian page supports
In an Old Art Gallery 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, Psychological, Historical, Fantasy
- Length: 166 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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- Work identity for In an Old Art Gallery by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse form with a focus on rhythm and meter.
- Philosophical — The themes explore deep questions about existence, fate, and divine justice.
- Psychological — The narrative delves into the inner thoughts and emotions of the characters.
- Historical — References to historical figures and past events are present in the narrative.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · Romanticism · Love Poems · Nature Imagery · Art Appreciation · Galleries · Old Buildings · Nostalgia · Melancholy · Longing · Beauty