Perfectness by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
The poem explores the idea that perfection is an unattainable goal and that striving for it can lead to disappointment and disillusionment. The speaker describes a romantic relationship in which the lover's flaws are overlooked in pursuit of an idealized love, but ultimately, the relationship falls apart due to the impossibility of achieving perfection.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1893 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Romantic · 160 words
First lines
All perfect things are saddening in effect. The autumn wood robed in its scarlet clothes, The matchless tinting on the royal rose Whose velvet leaf by no least flaw is flecked, Love's supreme moment, when the soul unchecked Soars high as heaven, and its best rapture knows -- These hold a deeper pathos than our woes, Since they leave nothing better to expect.
Resistless change, when powerless to improve, Can only mar. The gold will pale to gray; Nothing remains tomorrow as to-day; The lose will not seem quite so fait, and love Must find its measures of delight made less. Ah, how imperfect is all Perfectness!
What this Textopian page supports
Perfectness is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1893 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: 1893 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Romantic, Nature, Reflective
- Length: 160 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th 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 existential and philosophical questions about perfection and impermanence.
- Romantic — The work delves into themes of love and emotional rapture, common in romantic literature.
- Nature — The imagery and metaphors frequently reference natural elements like autumn woods and roses.
Tags
Philosophy · Poetry · Self-Improvement · Personal Growth · Motivation · Inspiration · Spirituality · Mindfulness · Wellness · Happiness · Optimism · Positive Thinking