The Question by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
The poem explores the idea that a person's soulmate can be identified through a single glance, and that this connection can transcend time and space. The speaker describes seeing their beloved in a crowd and feeling an instant sense of recognition and longing. The poem suggests that this connection is eternal and unbreakable, and that it will endure even after death.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1889 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Reflective · 201 words
First lines
Beside us in our seeking after pleasures, Through all our restless striving after fame, Through all our search for worldly gains and treasures, There walketh one whom no man likes to name. Silent he follows, veiled of form and feature, Indifferent if we sorrow or rejoice, Yet that day comes when every living creature Must look upon his face and hear his voice.
What this Textopian page supports
The Question is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1889 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: 1889 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Reflective, Spiritual, Didactic
- Length: 201 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Question by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering The Question?
- How does this poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- The Question by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- The Answer by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Answers by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- What Would It Be by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- The Way by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Credulity by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
Genres
- Poetry — The text is written in verse form with a rhythmic and metrical structure.
- Philosophical — The themes revolve around existential questions and the meaning of life and death.
- Reflective — The content encourages introspection and self-examination regarding one's actions and life choices.
- Spiritual — The text touches on spiritual themes such as the soul, morality, and the afterlife.
Tags
Philosophy · Spirituality · Poetry · Free Verse · Inspirational · Motivational · Self-Help · Personal Growth · Mindfulness · Contemplation · Introspection · Existential Crisis