Platonic by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
The poem explores the idea of platonic love and its significance in human relationships. It delves into the emotional connection between two individuals who share a deep affection for each other without romantic involvement. The speaker reflects on the beauty and purity of this type of love, which transcends physical desire and is rooted in mutual respect, trust, and understanding.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1886 · Genre: Romance, Poetry, Drama · 433 words
First lines
I knew it the first of the summer, I knew it the same at the end, That you and your love were plighted, But couldn't you be my friend? Couldn't we sit in the twilight, Couldn't we walk on the shore With only a pleasant friendship To bind us, and nothing more?
There was not a word of folly Spoken between us two, Though we lingered oft in the garden Till the roses were wet with dew. We touched on a thousand subjects -- The moon and the worlds above, -- And our talk was tinctured with science, And everything else, save love.
What this Textopian page supports
Platonic is listed on Textopian as a novel by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1886 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Novel
- Author: Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Date: 1886 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Romance, Poetry, Drama, Philosophical Fiction, Literary Fiction
- Length: 433 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Platonic 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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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Platonic?
- How does this novel by Ella Wheeler Wilcox fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Romance first become important in the reading?
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Genres
- Romance — The central theme revolves around unspoken love and emotional longing.
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, with a focus on lyrical expression and rhythm.
- Drama — The narrative explores intense emotional conflicts and personal struggles.
- Philosophical Fiction — The text delves into the nature of platonic relationships and unrequited love.
Tags
Romance · Philosophy · Spirituality · Poetry · Love · Soulmates · Metaphysics · Idealism · Beauty · Truth · Wisdom · Inspiration