Sunset by Ella Wheeler Wilcox (1889)

Name: Sunset
Author: Ella Wheeler Wilcox

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.

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Sunset is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1889 CE.

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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

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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.