The Cost by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
The poem explores the theme of sacrifice and regret in a romantic relationship. The speaker reflects on the cost of their past decisions, realizing that their pursuit of wealth and social status has led to the loss of true love. The poem expresses a sense of longing and nostalgia for a past time when love was genuine and pure, contrasting with the present state of emptiness and disillusionment.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1899 · Genre: Poetry, Feminist Literature, Philosophical Literature · 522 words
First lines
God finished woman in the twilight hour And said, ‘To-morrow thou shalt find thy place: Man's complement, the mother of the race- With love the motive power- The one compelling power.'
All night she dreamed and wondered. With the light Her lover came-and then she understood The purpose of her being. Life was good And all the world seemed right- And nothing was, but right.
What this Textopian page supports
The Cost 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, Feminist Literature, Philosophical Literature, Social Commentary, Romantic Literature
- Length: 522 words
- Structure: 1 section, 10 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Similar titles
- Woman To Man by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Shrines by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Contrasts by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- At The Bridal by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Through Dim Eyes by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Unrest by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
Genres
- Poetry — The text is written in verse form with a rhythmic and lyrical quality.
- Feminist Literature — The themes revolve around women's roles, struggles, and empowerment.
- Philosophical Literature — The work explores deep questions about human nature, purpose, and societal roles.
- Social Commentary — The narrative critiques societal norms and the treatment of women.
Tags
Poetry · Philosophical · Moralistic · Romantic · Victorian Era · American Literature · Free Verse · Emotional · Introspective · Personal Growth · Self-Discovery · Spiritual