The Earth by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
The poem explores the idea that the Earth is a sentient being that feels the pain and suffering inflicted upon it by humanity's destructive tendencies. It describes the Earth's beauty and its ability to nurture life, but also its anguish and despair at the destruction caused by human greed, war, and neglect. The poem ultimately conveys a sense of urgency, warning humans to change their ways and treat the Earth with respect and care before it's too late.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1896 · Genre: Poetry, Social Commentary, Philosophical · 454 words
First lines
I. To build a house, with love for architect, Ranks first and foremost in the joys of life. And in a tiny cabin, shaped for two, The space for happiness is just as great As in a palace. What a world were this If each soul born received a plot of ground; A little plot, whereon a home might rise, And beauteous green things grow! We give the dead, The idle vagrant dead, the Potter's Field; Yet to the living not one inch of soil. Nay, we take from them soil, and sun, and air, To fashion slums and hell-holes for the race. And to our poor we say, ‘Go starve and die As beggars die; so gain your heritage.'
What this Textopian page supports
The Earth is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1896 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: 1896 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Social Commentary, Philosophical, Fantasy, Romantic
- Length: 454 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
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Genres
- Poetry — The text is written in verse form with a focus on rhythm and meter.
- Social Commentary — The themes address societal issues such as poverty, inequality, and the distribution of land.
- Philosophical — The work explores existential themes and the human condition, particularly in relation to life and death.
- Fantasy — The narrative includes supernatural elements such as ghosts and spectral visions.
Tags
Nature · Poetry · Philosophy · Spirituality · Environmentalism · Cosmology · Earth Sciences · Science · Literature · American Literature · Early 20th Century · Women Authors