Little Girls by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
The poem explores the theme of nostalgia and the passing of time, focusing on the fleeting nature of childhood innocence and beauty. It describes little girls playing and laughing together, their carefree joy and beauty captivating all who see them. The poem then contrasts this idyllic scene with the harsh realities of adulthood, suggesting that these same girls will eventually face sorrow, hardship, and disillusionment as they grow older.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1883 · Genre: Poetry, Inspirational, Philosophical · 298 words
First lines
Whether you frolic with comrade boys, Or sit at your studies, or play with toys, Whatever your station, or place, or sphere, For just one purpose God sent you here; And always and ever, you are to me- Dear little Mothers, of Men to be.
So would I guard you from all mean things; From the dwarfing of wealth, and from poverty's stings. And from silly mothers of fuss and show, And from dissolute fathers whose aims are low, I would take you, and shield you, and set you free, Dear little Mothers, of Men to be.
What this Textopian page supports
Little Girls 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, Inspirational, Philosophical, Social Commentary, Visionary
- Length: 298 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Similar titles
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Genres
- Poetry — The text is written in verse form with a rhythmic and rhyming structure.
- Inspirational — The themes focus on uplifting and guiding young girls towards a noble purpose.
- Philosophical — The work contemplates the role and potential of young girls in society and their future impact.
- Social Commentary — The text critiques societal issues such as wealth disparity and parental influence.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · Feminist Literature · Children · Girlhood · Innocence · Youth · Nostalgia · Sentimental · Victorian Era · Rhyming Verse · Whimsical