Retrospection by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
The poem explores the theme of nostalgia and longing for a past love that has been lost. The speaker reflects on memories of the beloved, recalling moments of joy and intimacy. However, these recollections are tinged with sadness and regret, as the speaker acknowledges that the relationship has ended and cannot be revived.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1886 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Inspirational · 359 words
First lines
I look down the lengthening distance / Far back to youth's valley of hope. / How strange seemed the ways of existence, / How infinite life and its scope!
What dreams, what ambitions came thronging / To people a world of my own! / How the heart in my bosom was longing, / For pleasures and places unknown.
What this Textopian page supports
Retrospection is listed on Textopian as a poem 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: Poem
- Author: Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Date: 1886 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Inspirational, Reflective, Romantic
- Length: 359 words
- Structure: 1 section, 9 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Retrospection by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
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Similar titles
- Life And I by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- The Undiscovered Country by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Love Thyself Last by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Memorys Mansion by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Compensations by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- A Song Of Life by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
Genres
- Poetry — The text is structured in verse and employs poetic devices such as rhyme and meter.
- Philosophical — The themes explore existential questions and the nature of life and duty.
- Inspirational — The work encourages perseverance and trust in the face of life's challenges.
- Reflective — The narrative is introspective, looking back on past experiences and lessons learned.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · Philosophical · Reflective · Autobiographical · Memoir · Personal Growth · Self-Discovery · Inspirational · Motivational · Spiritual · Contemplative