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.
Do not make the way seem harder By a sullen face, Smile a little, smile a little, Brighten up the place.
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
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Smiles?
- How does this poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?
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