The Hour by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
The poem explores the theme of mortality and the fleeting nature of human life. It describes the passing of an hour, which serves as a metaphor for the brevity of human existence. The speaker reflects on how quickly time slips away, leaving behind only memories and regrets. The poem conveys a sense of urgency, encouraging the reader to make the most of the present moment, as it will soon be lost forever.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1900 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Inspirational · 282 words
First lines
This is the world's stupendous hour- / The supreme moment for the race / To see the emptiness of power, / The worthlessness of wealth and place, / To see the purpose and the plan / Conceived by God for growing man.
And they who see and comprehend / That ultimate and lofty aim / Will wait in patience for the end, / Knowing injustice cannot claim / One lasting victory, or control / Laws that bar progress for the whole.
This is an epoch-making time; / God thunders through the universe / A message glorious and sublime, / At once a blessing and a curse. / Blessings for those who seek His light, / Curses for those whose law is might.
What this Textopian page supports
The Hour is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1900 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: 1900 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Inspirational, Religious, Apocalyptic
- Length: 282 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Hour 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
Similar titles
- If We Should Meet Him by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Simple Creeds by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- A Song Of Life by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Let Us Give Thanks by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Hidden Gems by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- The Heights by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse form with a focus on rhythm and meter.
- Philosophical — The themes explore deep existential and metaphysical questions about life, power, and human progress.
- Inspirational — The text aims to inspire readers to seek higher truths and understand the divine purpose.
- Religious — The work references God and divine plans, indicating a strong religious undertone.
Tags
Poetry · Philosophical · Meditative · Contemplative · Spiritual · Inspirational · Motivational · Uplifting · Optimistic · Hopeful · Christian · Religious