The Sword by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
The poem explores the idea that a person's words can be a powerful tool, either for good or evil. The sword referred to in the title is a metaphor for the speaker's tongue, which has the power to both heal and harm. The poem argues that one should use their words carefully, as they have the ability to bring joy or sorrow to others.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1892 · Genre: Poetry, Drama, Philosophical · 137 words
First lines
Amidst applauding cheers I won a prize. A cynic watched me, with ironic eyes; An open foe, in open hatred, sneered; I cared for neither. Then my friend appeared. Eager, I listened for his glad ‘Well done. ' But sudden shadow seemed to shroud my sun.
He praised me: yet each slow, unwilling word Forced from its sheath base Envy's hidden sword, Two-edged, it wounded me; but, worst of all, It thrust my friend down from his pedestal, And showed him as he was-so small, so small.
What this Textopian page supports
The Sword is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1892 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: 1892 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Drama, Philosophical, Psychological, Literary
- Length: 137 words
- Structure: 1 section, 2 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse form, employing rhyme and meter.
- Drama — The narrative involves intense emotional conflict and personal relationships.
- Philosophical — Themes of envy, friendship, and self-realization are explored.
- Psychological — Focuses on the internal emotional states and motivations of the characters.
Tags
Romance · Poetry · Love · War · Conflict · Drama · Tragedy · Loss · Grief · Sorrow · Pain · Heartbreak