Lost Nation by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
The poem explores the theme of a nation's downfall due to its people's moral decay and corruption. It describes a once-great nation that has lost its way, its people indulging in selfish desires and ignoring the greater good. The narrator laments the loss of noble ideals and the rise of greed, materialism, and hypocrisy.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1899 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Literary Fiction · 276 words
First lines
Oh! we are a lone, lost nation, We, who sing your songs. With his moods, and his desolation The poet nowhere belongs.
We are not of the people Who labour, believe, and doubt. Like the bell that rings in the steeple, We are in the world, yet out.
In the rustic town, or the city We seek our place in vain; And our hearts are starved for pity, And our souls are sick with pain.
Yes, the people are buying, selling, And the world is one great mart. And woe for the thoughts that are dwelling Up in the poet's heart.
What this Textopian page supports
Lost Nation is listed on Textopian as a novel 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: Novel
- Author: Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Date: 1899 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Literary Fiction, Social Commentary
- Length: 276 words
- Structure: 1 section, 7 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The text is structured in verse and employs poetic devices such as rhyme and meter.
- Philosophical — The themes explore existential questions about the poet's place in society and the nature of human suffering.
- Literary Fiction — The work delves into the inner life and emotional struggles of the poet, characteristic of literary fiction.
- Social Commentary — The text critiques societal values and the disconnect between the poet and the commercial world.
Tags
Romance · Historical Fiction · American Literature · 19th Century · War and Military · Civil War · Family Drama · Social Class · Love Story · Tragedy · Loss · Grief