Sunset by Ella Wheeler Wilcox (1889)
The poem explores the themes of love, loss, and longing through a series of vignettes that unfold during a sunset. The narrator reflects on past experiences, memories, and emotions, weaving together a tapestry of human connection and disconnection.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1889 · Genre: Poetry, Romanticism, Symbolism · 96 words
First lines
I saw the day lean o'er the world's sharp edge And peer into night's chasm, dark and damp; High in his hand he held a blazing lamp, Then dropped it and plunged headlong down the ledge.
With lurid splendor that swift paled to gray, I saw the dim skies suddenly flush bright. 'Twas but the expiring glory of the light Flung from the hand of the adventurous day.
What this Textopian page supports
Sunset 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, Romanticism, Symbolism, Philosophical
- Length: 96 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Sunset by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
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Genres
- Poetry — The text is written in verse with a focus on imagery and metaphor.
- Romanticism — The themes and style reflect a romanticized view of nature and the passage of time.
- Symbolism — The use of symbolic language to convey deeper meanings about day and night.
- Philosophical — The text explores existential themes and the nature of time and light.
Tags
Poetry · Romance · Nature · Sunset · Love · Longing · Melancholy · Nostalgia · Beauty · Imagery · Symbolism · American Literature