The Breaking of Chains
The poem explores the theme of liberation and freedom from societal expectations and norms. It describes a person who has broken free from the shackles of convention and is now unapologetically themselves, embracing their individuality and living life on their own terms. The speaker revels in their newfound autonomy, feeling empowered and unrestricted as they shed the burdens of conformity.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1897 · Genre: Poetry, Inspirational, Philosophical · 387 words
First lines
Between the ringing of bells and the musical clang of chimes I hear a sound like the breaking of chains, all through these Christmas times. For the thought of the world is waking out of a slumber deep and long, And the race is beginning to understand how Right can master Wrong.
And the eyes of the world are opening wide, and great are the truths they see; And the heart of the world is singing a song, and its burden is ‘Be free! ' Now the thought of the world and the wish of the world and the song of the world will make A force so strong that the fetters forged for a million years must break.
What this Textopian page supports
The Breaking of Chains is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1897 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: 1897 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Inspirational, Philosophical, Religious, Historical
- Length: 387 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Breaking of Chains by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
- Forward by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- The Times by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Unrest by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- I Too by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Adjustment by John Greenleaf Whittier
- Dedication Poem by Frances Ellen Watkins Harper
Genres
- Poetry — The text is written in verse form with a rhythmic and lyrical quality.
- Inspirational — Themes of awakening, freedom, and overcoming oppression are central.
- Philosophical — Explores deep concepts such as truth, freedom, and the evolution of human thought.
- Religious — References to creeds, faith, and divine kinship are present.
Tags
Poetry · Feminism · Social Commentary · Personal Freedom · Emancipation · Women's Rights · Victorian Era · American Literature · Philosophical · Psychological Insight · Spiritual Quest · Autobiographical Elements