Progress by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
The poem explores the concept of progress and its effects on humanity. It describes how people have abandoned their natural instincts and emotions in pursuit of material advancements, leading to a loss of individuality and spirituality. The speaker argues that this relentless drive for progress has resulted in a dehumanizing effect, where people are reduced to mere machines.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1907 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Social Commentary · 172 words
First lines
There is no progress in the world of bees, However wise and wonderful they are. Their wisdom makes not increase. Lies the bar, To wider goals, in that tense strife to please A Sovereign Ruler? Forth from flowers to trees Their little quest is; not from star to star. This is not growth; the mighty avatar Comes not to do his work with such as these.
So in the world of men; when legions toil To feed a Monarch, and begem a crown, They build before high heaven a narrowing wall And the great purpose of Creation spoil. Not on, and upward, is the trend, but down; The Race can rise but with the rise of all.
What this Textopian page supports
Progress 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, Philosophical, Social Commentary, Allegory, Inspirational
- Length: 172 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse form with a focus on rhythm and meter.
- Philosophical — The themes explore deep questions about progress, society, and human nature.
- Social Commentary — The text critiques societal structures and the impact of hierarchical systems.
- Allegory — The use of bees and monarchs serves as a metaphor for human societal issues.
Tags
Philosophy · Poetry · Spirituality · Inspiration · Motivation · Personal Growth · Self-Improvement · Optimism · Hope · Faith · Perseverance · Resilience