The Common Lot
The novel revolves around the life of a young woman who rises from poverty to wealth and social status through her marriage to a wealthy man. However, she soon realizes that her new life is empty and unfulfilling, and she begins to long for her old life and the people she left behind.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1899 · Genre: Poetry, Romance, Drama · 347 words
First lines
It is a common fate -- a woman's lot -- To waste on one the riches of her soul, Who takes the wealth she gives him, but cannot Repay the interest, and much less the whole.
As I look up into your eyes and wait For some response to my fond gaze and touch, It seems to me there is no sadder fate Than to be doomed to loving overmuch.
What this Textopian page supports
The Common Lot is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1899 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: 1899 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romance, Drama, Women's Literature, Philosophical
- Length: 347 words
- Structure: 1 section, 7 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Common Lot by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering The Common Lot?
- How does this poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
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Similar titles
- The Promise Of Spring by Edith Nesbit
- Mal Moulee by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Autumn Song by Edith Nesbit
- A Marriage Settlement by Honore De Balzac
- The Appeal by Edith Nesbit
- Cape Jessamines by O. Henry
Genres
- Poetry — The text is written in verse form with a focus on rhythm and meter.
- Romance — The themes revolve around love, affection, and emotional relationships.
- Drama — The narrative explores intense emotional experiences and personal conflicts.
- Women's Literature — The work addresses the experiences and emotional struggles of women.
Tags
Romance · Drama · Family · Marriage · Social Class · Poverty · Wealth · Inequality · Society · Culture · Tradition · Values