
The poem explores the idea that every individual has a darker, more sinister counterpart within themselves, which can emerge and take control under certain circumstances. The speaker describes this alternate self as "the other," implying a sense of duality and inner conflict. Throughout the poem, the speaker grapples with the existence of this darker half, acknowledging its presence and power while also expressing a desire to suppress or overcome it.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1912 · Genre: Poetry, Romance, Drama · 401 words
All alone with my heart to-night / I sit, and wonder, and sigh. / What is she like, is she dark, or light, / This other woman who has the right / To love him better than I?
We never have spoken her name, we two; / There was no need somehow, / But she lives, and loves, and her heart is true; / From the very first this much I knew, / So why should it hurt me now.
Poetry · Philosophical · Spiritual · Mystical · Romantic · Idealistic · Metaphysical · Esoteric · Occult · Supernatural · Paranormal · Fantasy
The Other is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1912 CE.
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