More Fortunate
The poem explores the idea that those who have experienced sorrow and hardship are more fortunate than those who have lived a life of ease and comfort. The speaker argues that suffering can lead to personal growth, wisdom, and a deeper appreciation for life, while a life without challenges can result in stagnation and superficiality.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1898 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Romantic · 163 words
First lines
I hold that life more fortunate by far That sits with its sweet memories alone And cherishes a joy for ever flown Beyond the reach of accident to mar. (Some joy that was extinguished like a star) Than that which makes the prize so much its own That its poor commonplacenesses are shown; (Which in all things, when viewed too closely, are.)
Better to mourn a blossom snatched away Before it reached perfection, than behold With dry, unhappy eyes, day after day, The fresh bloom fade, and the fair leaf decay. Better to lose the dream, with all its gold, Than keep it till it changes to dull grey.
What this Textopian page supports
More Fortunate is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1898 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: 1898 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Romantic, Literary
- Length: 163 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The text is written in verse and employs poetic devices such as rhyme and meter.
- Philosophical — The themes explore deep reflections on life, loss, and the nature of happiness.
- Romantic — The content deals with emotions and memories related to love and loss.
- Literary — The writing style is sophisticated and focuses on the aesthetic quality of the language.
Tags
Romance · Poetry · Love · Relationships · Heartbreak · Longing · Desire · Passion · Emotional · Introspective · Personal Growth · Self-Discovery