March by Ella Wheeler Wilcox (1899)
The poem explores the themes of love, loss, and longing through a series of vignettes that unfold over the course of a single month, March. The speaker reflects on past experiences, memories, and emotions, weaving together a narrative that is both deeply personal and universally relatable.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1899 · Genre: Poetry, Nature, Personification · 143 words
First lines
Like some reformer, who with mien austere, Neglected dress, and loud insistent tones, More rasping than the wrongs which she bemoans, Walks through the land and wearies all who hear, While yet we know the need of such reform; So comes unlovely March, with wind and storm, To break the spell of winter, and set free The poisoned brooks and crocus beds oppressed. Severe of face, gaunt-armed, and wildly dressed, She is not fair nor beautiful to see. But merry April and sweet smiling May Come not till March has first prepared the way.
What this Textopian page supports
March 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, Nature, Personification, Symbolism, Reform
- Length: 143 words
- Structure: 1 section, 1 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for March 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
- What should a reader notice first when entering March?
- How does this poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- A Dream Of Autumn by James Whitcomb Riley
- December by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- When Early March Seems Middle May by James Whitcomb Riley
- The First Flowers by John Greenleaf Whittier
- September by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- April by John Greenleaf Whittier
Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse form with a focus on rhythm and meter.
- Nature — The poem uses natural imagery and themes related to the changing seasons.
- Personification — March is personified as a reformer, giving human characteristics to a month.
- Symbolism — March symbolizes transition and preparation for the more pleasant months of April and May.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · Nature · Seasonal · Spring · Imagery · Symbolism · Romanticism · Love · Longing · Melancholy · Nostalgia