Only Be Still by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
The poem explores the theme of loneliness and isolation, describing a state of being where one's soul is still and unmoving, despite the turmoil and chaos that surrounds them. The speaker describes their heart as a "heavy burden" and their eyes as "dry and blind", emphasizing their emotional numbness.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1887 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophy, Spirituality · 183 words
First lines
‘Only be still, and in the silence grow,' / If thou art seeking what the gods bestow. / This is the simple, safe, and certain way / That leads to knowledge for which all men pray / Of higher laws to govern things below.
But in our restless discontent we go / With noisy importuning day on day- / Drowning the inner voice that strives to say / ‘Only be still, and in the silence grow.'
We doubt, we cavil, and we talk of woe- / We delve in books, and waste our forces so; / We cling to creeds that were not meant to stay, / And close our ears to Truth's immortal lay. / Oh wouldst thou see, and understand, and know? / ‘Only be still, and in the silence grow. '
What this Textopian page supports
Only Be Still is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1887 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: 1887 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophy, Spirituality, Self-Help
- Length: 183 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Only Be Still 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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Similar titles
- The Way by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- The Way by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- An Answer by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- The Answer by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Here And Now by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- The Universal Route by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
Genres
- Poetry — The text is structured in verse and employs rhyme and meter.
- Philosophy — The themes revolve around seeking knowledge, inner peace, and higher laws.
- Spirituality — The work discusses spiritual growth and the pursuit of truth.
- Self-Help — The text offers guidance on personal development and inner stillness.
Tags
Spirituality · Poetry · Inspirational · Motivational · Philosophical · Mindfulness · Self-Help · Personal Growth · Wellness · Meditation · Reflection · Contemplation