Smiles by Ella Wheeler Wilcox (1905)
The poem explores the idea that a smile can have a profound impact on those around us, and that it has the power to bring joy and comfort to others. The speaker describes how a smile can be a powerful tool for spreading happiness and making the world a brighter place.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1905 · Genre: Poetry, Inspirational, Philosophical · 284 words
First lines
Smile a little, smile a little, / As you go along, / Not alone when life is pleasant, / But when things go wrong. / Care delights to see you frowning, / Loves to hear you sigh; / Turn a smiling face upon her, / Quick the dame will fly.
Smile a little, smile a little, / All along the road; / Every life must have its burden, / Every heart its load. / Why sit down in gloom and darkness, / With your grief to sup? / As you drink Fate's bitter tonic, / Smile across the cup.
Smile upon the troubled pilgrims / Whom you pass and meet; / Frowns are thorns, and smiles are blossoms / Oft for weary feet.
What this Textopian page supports
Smiles is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1905 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: 1905 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Inspirational, Philosophical, Self-Help
- Length: 284 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Smiles 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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Similar titles
- Smiles by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Words by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Brotherhood by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- My Friend by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Praise Day by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Sorrows Uses by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse and employs rhyme and meter.
- Inspirational — The themes focus on maintaining a positive attitude and resilience in the face of adversity.
- Philosophical — The text explores deeper reflections on life, suffering, and the human condition.
- Self-Help — The content provides advice and encouragement for personal improvement and coping with challenges.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · Inspirational · Motivational · Optimism · Happiness · Joy · Love · Relationships · Friendship · Family · Sorrow