Lippo by Ella Wheeler Wilcox (1883)
The story revolves around a young Italian violinist named Lippo who travels to America seeking fame and fortune. He becomes infatuated with a wealthy American woman, but their social differences and the woman's prior engagement hinder their love. Meanwhile, Lippo befriends a poor but talented singer who helps him rise to stardom. As Lippo's fortunes change, he must confront his past, his relationships, and his own identity.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1883 · Genre: Poetry, Romance, Drama · 296 words
First lines
Now we must part, my Lippo. Even so, I grieve to see thy sudden pained surprise; Gaze not on me with such accusing eyes- 'Twas thine own hand which dealt dear Love's death-blow.
I loved thee fondly yesterday. Till then Thy heart was like a covered golden cup Always above my eager lip held up. I fancied thou wert not as other men.
I knew that heart was filled with Love's sweet wine, Pressed wholly for my drinking. And my lip Grew parched with thirsting for one nectared sip Of what, denied me, seemed a draught divine.
Last evening, in the gloaming, that cup spilled Its precious contents. Even to the lees Were offered to me, saying, "Drink of these! " And, when I saw it empty, Love was killed.
What this Textopian page supports
Lippo is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1883 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: 1883 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romance, Drama, Tragedy
- Length: 296 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Lippo 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
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
- Guilo by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Beppo by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Carlos by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Maurine by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Guerdon by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- The Traveller by Ellen Glasgow
Genres
- Poetry — The text is written in verse form with a focus on rhythm and meter.
- Romance — The central theme revolves around love and relationships.
- Drama — The narrative explores intense emotional experiences and conflicts.
- Tragedy — The story involves the downfall of love and the emotional suffering of the characters.
Tags
Romance · Novel · American Literature · Fiction · Classic · Historical Fiction · Love Story · Tragedy · Drama · Family Saga · Social Class · Wealth