Knowledge by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
The poem explores the idea that knowledge is a double-edged sword, bringing both power and sorrow to those who possess it. The speaker describes how knowledge can bring a sense of isolation and disconnection from others, as well as a deeper understanding of the world's suffering. Ultimately, the poem suggests that true happiness lies in ignorance, rather than knowledge.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1908 · Genre: Spirituality, Poetry, Philosophy · 223 words
First lines
Would you believe in Presences Unseen- In life beyond this earthly life? BE STILL: Be stiller yet; and listen. Set the screen Of silence at the portal of your will. Relax, and let the world go by unheard. And seal your lips with some all-sacred word.
Breathe ‘God,' in any tongue-it means the same; LOVE ABSOLUTE: Think, feel, absorb the thought; Shut out all else; until a subtle flame (A spark from God's creative centre caught) Shall permeate your being, and shall glow, Increasing in its splendour, till, YOU KNOW.
What this Textopian page supports
Knowledge is listed on Textopian as an essay by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1908 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Essay
- Author: Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Date: 1908 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Spirituality, Poetry, Philosophy, Self-Help, Mysticism
- Length: 223 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Knowledge 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
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Knowledge?
- How does this essay by Ella Wheeler Wilcox fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Spirituality first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- Show Me The Way by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- The Speech Of Silence by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- The Way by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Insight by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- The Answer by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- The Ladder by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
Genres
- Spirituality — The text focuses on themes of unseen presences, life beyond earthly existence, and divine love.
- Poetry — The writing style is poetic, with structured verses and a rhythmic flow.
- Philosophy — The work delves into philosophical concepts of knowledge, patience, and the soul's journey.
- Self-Help — The text offers guidance on achieving spiritual enlightenment and inner peace.
Tags
Philosophy · Poetry · Spirituality · Self-Discovery · Personal Growth · Mindfulness · Inspiration · Motivation · Wisdom · Introspection · Contemplation · Meditation