The Reason by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
The poem explores the theme of unrequited love and the consequences of societal expectations on individual desires. The narrator reflects on a past relationship that was stifled by the pressures of social class and family obligations. The speaker's emotions are characterized by longing, regret, and resignation as they acknowledge the impossibility of reuniting with their beloved.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1916 · Genre: Poetry, Romance, Philosophical · 177 words
First lines
Do you know what moves the tides / As they swing from low to high? / 'Tis the love, love, love, / Of the moon within the sky. / Oh! they follow where she guides, / Do the faithful-hearted tides.
Do you know what moves the earth / Out of winter into spring? / 'Tis the love, love, love, / Of the sun, the mighty king. / Oh the rapture that finds birth / In the kiss of sun and earth!
Do you know what makes sweet songs / Ring for me above earth's strife? / 'Tis the love, love, love, / That you bring into my life, / Oh the glory of the songs / In the heart where love belongs!
What this Textopian page supports
The Reason is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1916 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: 1916 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romance, Philosophical, Nature
- Length: 177 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Reason by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Similar titles
- Replies by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- An Answer by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Has Been by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Answered by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Why by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Old And New by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
Genres
- Poetry — The text is structured in verse and employs rhyme and meter.
- Romance — The central theme revolves around love and its effects.
- Philosophical — The work explores existential themes and the nature of love.
- Nature — The text uses natural elements like tides, the moon, and the sun to convey its message.
Tags
Philosophy · Poetry · Spirituality · Inspirational · Motivational · Self-Help · Personal Growth · Mindfulness · Wellness · Optimism · Hope · Faith