Interlude by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
The poem Interlude explores the theme of a romantic relationship that has ended, but the speaker still holds onto memories and emotions from the past. The poem expresses a sense of longing and nostalgia for what could have been if circumstances were different.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1886 · Genre: Poetry, Romance, Philosophical · 187 words
First lines
The days grow shorter, the nights grow longer; The headstones thicken along the way, And life grows sadder, but love grows stronger, For those who walk with us day by day.
The tear comes quicker, the laugh comes slower; The courage is lesser to do and dare; And the tide of joy in the heart falls lower, And seldom covers the reefs of care.
But all true things in the world seem truer; And the better things of earth seem best, And friends are dearer, as friends are fewer, And love is _all_ as our sun dips west.
Then let us clasp hands as we walk together, And let us speak softly in love's sweet tone; For no man knows on the morrow whether We two pass on-or but one alone.
What this Textopian page supports
Interlude is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1886 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: 1886 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romance, Philosophical, Reflective
- Length: 187 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The text is written in verse and employs rhyme and meter.
- Romance — Themes of love and companionship are central to the text.
- Philosophical — The text reflects on life, mortality, and the passage of time.
- Reflective — The tone is contemplative, focusing on personal and emotional introspection.
Tags
Poetry · Romance · Love · Nature · Imagery · Symbolism · Free Verse · Emotional · Introspective · Contemplative · Melancholic · Nostalgic