Little Queen by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
The poem tells the story of a young queen who marries a king much older than herself and becomes disillusioned with her royal life. She feels trapped in the palace and longs for freedom and romance. The king, realizing his wife's unhappiness, sets her free to pursue her own desires, but she ultimately returns to him, recognizing that her duty is to be by his side.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1899 · Genre: Poetry, Romance, Nostalgia · 385 words
First lines
Do you remember the name I wore -- The old pet-name of Little Queen -- In the dear, dead days that are no more, The happiest days of our lives, I ween? For we loved with that passionate love of youth That blesses but once with its perfect bliss -- A love that, in spite of its trust and truth, Seems never to thrive in a world like this.
I lived for you, and you lived for me; All was centered in "Little Queen; " And never a thought in our hearts had we That strife or trouble could come between. What utter sinking of self it was! How little we cared for the world of men! For love's fair kingdom and love's sweet laws Were all of the world and life to us then.
What this Textopian page supports
Little Queen is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1899 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: 1899 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romance, Nostalgia, Tragedy
- Length: 385 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The text is structured in verse and employs poetic devices such as rhyme and meter.
- Romance — The themes revolve around love, passion, and emotional connection between two individuals.
- Nostalgia — The narrative reflects on past memories and the longing for a bygone era.
- Tragedy — The poem hints at a love that was challenged by fate and circumstances, leading to a sense of loss.
Tags
Romance · Historical Fiction · American Literature · 19th Century · Women's Rights · Feminism · Marriage · Love Triangle · Social Class · Wealth · Power Dynamics · Family Drama