Strength by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
The poem explores the idea that true strength lies not in physical power or material wealth, but in the ability to overcome adversity and emerge stronger on the other side. It argues that those who have faced hardship and struggle are often the strongest, as they have been tempered like steel in a furnace. The poem also touches on the theme of perseverance, suggesting that it is not the absence of difficulties that makes one strong, but the willingness to push through them.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1917 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Inspirational · 188 words
First lines
Who is the strong? Not he who puts to test His sinews with the strong and proves the best; But he who dwells where weaklings congregate, And never lets his splendid strength abate.
Who is the good? Not he who walks each day With moral men along the high, clean way; But he who jostles gilded sin and shame, Yet will not sell his honour or his name.
Who is the wise? Not he who from the start With Wisdom's followers has taken part; But he who looks in Folly's tempting eyes, And turns away, perceiving her disguise.
Who is serene? Not he who flees his kind, Some mountain fastness, or some cave to find; But he who in the city's noisiest scene, Keeps calm within-he only is serene.
What this Textopian page supports
Strength is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1917 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: 1917 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Inspirational, Self-Help, Literary
- Length: 188 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Similar titles
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse and employs rhyme and meter.
- Philosophical — The themes explore deep questions about strength, goodness, wisdom, and serenity.
- Inspirational — The content aims to inspire and motivate readers to reflect on their inner qualities.
- Self-Help — The work provides guidance on how to live a virtuous and strong life.
Tags
Inspiration · Motivation · Poetry · Self-Help · Personal Growth · Empowerment · Mindfulness · Spirituality · Wellness · Positive Thinking · Optimism · Hope