The Swan of Dijon by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
The poem tells the story of a young woman who falls deeply in love with a man from Dijon, but their social differences make their love impossible. Despite her efforts to forget him, she remains devoted and eventually dies of a broken heart. The narrative explores themes of unrequited love, social class, and the tragic consequences of following one's heart.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1894 · Genre: Poetry, War Literature, Nature Writing · 227 words
First lines
I was in Dijon when the war's wild blast / Was at its loudest; when there was no sound / From dawn to dawn, save soldiers marching past, / Or rattle of their wagons in the street. / When every engine whistle would repeat / Persistently, with meaning tense, profound, / ‘We carry men to slaughter' or ‘we bring / Remnants of men back as war's offering.'
And there in Dijon, the out-gazing eye / Grew weary of the strife-suggesting scene; / But, searching, found one quiet spot hard by / Where war was not; a little lake whereon / Moved leisurely a stately, tranquil swan, / Majestic and imposing, yet serene.
What this Textopian page supports
The Swan of Dijon is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1894 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: 1894 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, War Literature, Nature Writing, Philosophical Literature, Historical Fiction
- Length: 227 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Swan of Dijon by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Genres
- Poetry — The text is written in verse with a focus on rhythm and imagery.
- War Literature — The setting and themes revolve around the impact of war.
- Nature Writing — The swan and the lake are central natural elements in the narrative.
- Philosophical Literature — The text explores deeper meanings and reflections on peace amidst chaos.
Tags
Romance · Historical Fiction · French Revolution · Drama · Tragedy · Love Story · War · Intrigue · Deception · Betrayal · Loyalty · Honor