Shadows by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
The poem explores the theme of lost love and longing. The speaker describes a past relationship that has ended, leaving only shadows of memories. The poem expresses a deep sense of yearning and nostalgia for what could have been. The speaker acknowledges the impossibility of recapturing the past, yet cannot help but hold onto the fleeting remnants of love.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1902 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Religious · 209 words
First lines
I am sorry in the gladness Of the joys that crown my days, For the souls that sit in sadness Or walk uninviting ways.
On the radiance of my labour That a loving fate bestowed, Falls the shadow of my neighbour, Crushed beneath a thankless load.
As the canticle of pleasure From my lovelit altar rolls, There is one discordant measure, As I think of homeless souls.
And I know that grim old story, Preached from pulpits, is not so, For no God could sit in glory And see sinners writhe below.
What this Textopian page supports
Shadows is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1902 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: 1902 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Religious, Inspirational
- Length: 209 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The text is structured in verse and employs rhyme and meter typical of poetry.
- Philosophical — The themes explore deep existential questions about suffering, divine justice, and the nature of God.
- Religious — The content discusses theological concepts and critiques traditional religious views.
- Inspirational — The work aims to provide comfort and hope, suggesting that love and pity will ultimately prevail.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · Romanticism · Love Poems · Nature Imagery · Spirituality · Mysticism · Death and Mourning · Grief · Loss · Sorrow · Melancholy