The Meeting of the Centuries
The poem explores the idea that a romantic encounter between two individuals from different eras can transcend time and space. The speaker describes meeting someone from ancient Greece, who has been transported through the centuries to the present day. Despite being from vastly different cultures and time periods, the two form an instant connection, suggesting that true love can conquer even the boundaries of time.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1917 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Visionary · 795 words
First lines
A curious vision on mine eyes unfurled In the deep night. I saw, or seemed to see, Two Centuries meet, and sit down vis-à-vis Across the great round table of the world: One with suggested sorrows in his mien, And on his brow the furrowed lines of thought; And one whose glad expectant presence brought A glow and radiance from the realms unseen.
Hand clasped with hand, in silence for a space The Centuries sat; the sad old eyes of one (As grave paternal eyes regard a son) Gazing upon that other eager face. And then a voice, as cadenceless and gray As the sea's monody in winter time, Mingled with tones melodious, as the chime Of bird choirs, singing in the dawns of May.
What this Textopian page supports
The Meeting of the Centuries is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1917 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: 1917 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Visionary, Historical, Social Commentary
- Length: 795 words
- Structure: 1 section, 14 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The text is written in verse form with a focus on rhythm, meter, and imagery.
- Philosophical — The dialogue between the centuries explores deep themes such as time, progress, and human nature.
- Visionary — The work presents a visionary dialogue between personified centuries, reflecting on past and future.
- Historical — References to historical events and the state of the world at the turn of the century are present.
Tags
Philosophy · Spirituality · Poetry · Esoteric · Mysticism · Occultism · Theosophy · New Thought · Metaphysics · Inspiration · Motivation · Personal Growth