Penalty by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
The poem explores the theme of guilt and redemption through the story of a woman who has committed a crime and is now imprisoned. The narrator reflects on her past life, remembering her childhood, her marriage, and the circumstances that led to her downfall. Throughout the poem, the speaker expresses remorse for her actions and longs for forgiveness and freedom.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1899 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Emotional · 195 words
First lines
Because of the fullness of what I had All that I have seems void and vain. If I had not been happy I were not sad; Though my salt is savorless, why complain?
From the ripe perfection of what was mine, All that is mine seems worse than naught; Yet I know as I sit in the dark and pine, No cup could be drained which had not been fraught.
From the throb and thrill of a day that was, The day that now is seems dull with gloom; Yet I bear its dullness and darkness because 'Tis but the reaction of glow and bloom.
From the royal feast which of old was spread I am starved on the diet which now is mine; Yet I could not turn hungry from water and bread, If I had not been sated on fruit and wine.
What this Textopian page supports
Penalty 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, Philosophical, Emotional, Reflective
- Length: 195 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The text is structured in verse and employs poetic devices such as rhyme and meter.
- Philosophical — The themes explore deep reflections on happiness, loss, and the nature of human experience.
- Emotional — The writing delves into the emotional states of joy and sorrow, contrasting past fulfillment with present emptiness.
- Reflective — The narrative is introspective, focusing on the personal contemplation of past and present circumstances.
Tags
Romance · Drama · Tragedy · Love Story · Marriage · Infidelity · Guilt · Shame · Redemption · Self-Discovery · Psychological Fiction · Emotional Turmoil