Our Atlas by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
The poem explores the theme of a woman's inner strength and resilience in the face of adversity. The speaker describes her heart as an atlas, mapping out the struggles and hardships she has endured. Despite being worn and torn, the atlas remains intact, symbolizing the speaker's unbroken spirit. Through this metaphor, the poem conveys a message of hope and empowerment, encouraging women to tap into their inner strength and persevere in the face of challenges.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1907 · Genre: Poetry, Political Commentary, Inspirational · 424 words
First lines
Not Atlas, with his shoulders bent beneath the weighty world, Bore such a burden as this man, on whom the Gods have hurled The evils of old festering lands-yea, hurled them in their might And left him standing all alone, to set the wrong things right.
It is the way the Fates have done since first Time's race began! They open up Pandora's box before some chosen man; And then, aloof, they wait and watch, to see if he will find And wake the slumbering God that dwells in every mortal's mind.
What this Textopian page supports
Our Atlas is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1907 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: 1907 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Political Commentary, Inspirational, Historical, Philosophical
- Length: 424 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
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Genres
- Poetry — The text is written in verse with a rhythmic and metrical structure.
- Political Commentary — The themes revolve around leadership, governance, and societal challenges.
- Inspirational — The work aims to inspire courage and resolve in the face of adversity.
- Historical — References to historical figures and events provide a contextual backdrop.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · Romanticism · Love Poems · Nature · Spirituality · Philosophy · Meditation · Contemplation · Self-Discovery · Personal Growth · Inspirational