Science by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
The poem explores the tension between scientific progress and emotional/spiritual experience. It describes a person who has lost faith in traditional religion but still yearns for spiritual connection. The speaker argues that science, despite its advancements, cannot explain the mysteries of human existence, such as love, beauty, and death.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1883 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Inspirational · 515 words
First lines
Alone I climb the steep ascending path Which leads to knowledge. In the babbling throngs That hurry after, shouting to the world Small fragments of large truths, there is not one Who comprehends my purpose, or who sees The ultimate great goal. Why, even she, My heaven intended Spouse, my other self, Religion, turns her beauteous face on me With hatred in the eyes, where love should dwell. While those who call me Master blindly run, Wounding the ear of Faith with blasphemies, And making useless slaughter in my name.
What this Textopian page supports
Science is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1883 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: 1883 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Inspirational, Religious, Didactic
- Length: 515 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The text is written in verse form with a focus on rhythm and meter.
- Philosophical — The themes explore deep questions about knowledge, truth, and the relationship between science and religion.
- Inspirational — The writing aims to inspire and elevate the reader's understanding of science and its ultimate goals.
- Religious — The text discusses the relationship between science and religion, aiming to reconcile the two.
Tags
Philosophy · Poetry · Science · Nature · Spirituality · Mystery · Awe · Wonder · Cosmology · Existentialism · Humanism · Optimism