The Masquerade by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
The poem explores the theme of a person's inner self being hidden behind a social mask. The speaker describes how they wear a masquerade to conceal their true emotions and thoughts from the world, fearing rejection and ridicule. They long to reveal their genuine selves but are trapped by societal expectations and the fear of being misunderstood.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1893 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Inspirational · 97 words
First lines
Look in the eyes of trouble with a smile, / Extend your hand and do not be afraid. / 'Tis but a friend who comes to masquerade. / And test your faith and courage for awhile.
Fly, and he follows fast with threat and jeer. / Shrink, and he deals hard blow on stinging blow, / But bid him welcome as a friend, and lo! / The jest is off-the masque will disappear.
What this Textopian page supports
The Masquerade is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1893 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: 1893 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Inspirational, Self-Help
- Length: 97 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
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- Work identity for The Masquerade by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
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- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse and employs rhyme and meter.
- Philosophical — The themes explore deep concepts such as courage, faith, and the nature of adversity.
- Inspirational — The content aims to motivate and encourage readers to face challenges with a positive attitude.
- Self-Help — The work provides advice on how to handle difficulties, suggesting practical approaches to life's problems.
Tags
Romance · Poetry · American Literature · 19th Century · Love Story · Tragic Love · Social Class · Marriage · Deception · Secrecy · Society Life · Upper Class