The Ghosts by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
The poem explores the idea that past experiences and emotions continue to haunt an individual, likening them to ghosts that cannot be escaped. The speaker describes how memories of joy, sorrow, and love linger, influencing their present and future. The ghosts are portrayed as relentless, always lurking, and inescapable, emphasizing the lasting impact of one's history on their psyche.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1907 · Genre: Poetry, War, Supernatural · 368 words
First lines
There was no wind, and yet the air Seemed suddenly astir; There were no forms, and yet all space Seemed thronged with growing hosts. They came from Where, and from Nowhere, Like phantoms as they were; They came from many a land and place- The ghosts, the ghosts, the ghosts.
And some were white, and some were grey, And some were red as blood- Those ghosts of men who met their death Upon the field of war. Against the skies of fading day, Like banks of cloud they stood; And each wraith asked another wraith, ‘What were we fighting for?'
What this Textopian page supports
The Ghosts is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1907 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: 1907 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, War, Supernatural, Philosophical, Historical
- Length: 368 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
- The Ghost by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- The Infernal Marriage by Benjamin Disraeli
- The Creaking Door by Madison Cawein
- Two Ghosts by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- In Absence by Edith Nesbit
- Bridal Ballad by Edith Nesbit
Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse with a focus on rhythm and meter.
- War — The themes revolve around the experiences and reflections of soldiers who died in battle.
- Supernatural — The narrative involves ghosts and phantoms, emphasizing the presence of the supernatural.
- Philosophical — The text explores deep questions about the purpose and justification of war.
Tags
Ghosts · Supernatural · Paranormal · Mystery · Thriller · Horror · Fiction · Classic · Literary · Romance · Tragedy · Loss