Summer Dreams by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
The poem explores the theme of nostalgia and longing for a past love that has been lost. The speaker reflects on memories of summer days spent with a beloved, recalling the beauty and joy they shared. However, the tone shifts to one of melancholy and despair as the speaker realizes those carefree days are gone, and the loved one is now absent.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1889 · Genre: Poetry, Nature, Social Commentary · 288 words
First lines
When the Summer sun is shining, And the green things push and grow, Oft my heart runs over measure, With its flowing fount of pleasure, As I feel the sea winds blow; Ah, then life is good, I know.
And I think of sweet birds building, And of children fair and free; And of glowing sun-kissed meadows, And of tender twilight shadows, And of boats upon the sea. Oh, then life seems good to me!
Then unbidden and unwanted, Come the darker, sadder sights; City shop and stifling alley, Where misfortune's children rally; And the hot crime-breeding nights, And the dearth of God's delights.
What this Textopian page supports
Summer Dreams is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1889 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: 1889 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Nature, Social Commentary, Philosophical
- Length: 288 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Poetry — The text is structured in verse and employs poetic devices such as rhyme and meter.
- Nature — The themes prominently feature natural elements like the sun, sea, birds, and meadows.
- Social Commentary — The text contrasts the beauty of nature with the harsh realities of urban life and human suffering.
- Philosophical — The work reflects on deeper existential themes such as the goodness of life and the desire to alleviate suffering.
Tags
Romance · Poetry · American Literature · Love Poems · Nature · Seasonal · Summer · Dreams · Imagery · Sensuality · Passion · Emotional