Obstacles by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
The poem explores the idea that obstacles and hardships are necessary for personal growth and self-improvement. The speaker argues that a life without challenges would be stagnant and unfulfilling, and that it is through overcoming obstacles that one develops strength, courage, and character. The poem suggests that difficulties are an essential part of life, and that they should be embraced rather than feared or avoided.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1902 · Genre: Poetry, Inspirational, Religious · 147 words
First lines
‘The slothful man saith, There is a lion in the way; a lion is in the street. '-PROVERBS xxvi. 13.
There are no lions in the street; No lions in the way. Go seek the goal, thou slothful soul, Awake, awake, I say.
Thou dost but dream of obstacles; In God's great lexicon, That word illstarred, no page has marred; Press on, I say, press on.
Nothing can keep thee from thine own But thine own slothful mind. To one who knocks, each door unlocks; And he who seeks, shall find.
What this Textopian page supports
Obstacles is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1902 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: 1902 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Inspirational, Religious, Philosophical
- Length: 147 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
- Assertion by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Strength by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Be Not Dismayed by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Spirit Of A Great Control by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- As You Go Through Life by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Opportunity by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
Genres
- Poetry — The text is written in verse form with a rhythmic and lyrical quality.
- Inspirational — The themes focus on overcoming obstacles and self-motivation.
- Religious — The text references religious scripture and themes of divine guidance.
- Philosophical — The work explores philosophical ideas about human potential and mindset.
Tags
Inspiration · Motivation · Poetry · Self-Help · Personal Growth · Philosophy · Spirituality · Mindfulness · Wellness · Positive Thinking · Optimism · Resilience