Life's Harmonies
The poem explores the idea that life is a harmonious blend of contrasting elements, where joy and sorrow, love and loss, and beauty and ugliness coexist and complement each other. It argues that a life without contrasts would be dull and unfulfilling, and that it is the juxtaposition of opposites that gives life its richness and meaning.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1916 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Inspirational · 144 words
First lines
Let no man pray that he know not sorrow, Let no soul ask to be free from pain, For the gall of to-day is the sweet of to-morrow, And the moment's loss is the lifetime's gain.
Through want of a thing does its worth redouble, Through hunger's pangs does the feast content, And only the heart that has harbored trouble, Can fully rejoice when joy is sent.
Let no man shrink from the bitter tonics Of grief, and yearning, and need, and strife, For the rarest chords in the soul's harmonies, Are found in the minor strains of life.
What this Textopian page supports
Life's Harmonies is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1916 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: 1916 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Inspirational, Literary
- Length: 144 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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Similar titles
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse and employs poetic devices such as rhyme and meter.
- Philosophical — The themes explore deep reflections on sorrow, pain, and the human condition.
- Inspirational — The content aims to provide comfort and motivation through its exploration of overcoming adversity.
- Literary — The writing style is sophisticated and employs a high level of literary craftsmanship.
Tags
Poetry · Philosophy · Spirituality · Inspiration · Motivation · Self-Help · Personal Growth · Wellness · Mindfulness · Optimism · Hope · Positive Thinking