The Tulip Bed At Greeley Square
The poem tells the story of a woman who dies in a hotel room at Greeley Square, surrounded by the lavish decorations and furnishings of her luxurious life. However, despite the opulence, she is revealed to be unhappy and unfulfilled, with a "tulip bed" that has been her prison rather than a symbol of beauty. The poem explores themes of loneliness, materialism, and the emptiness of a life focused on external appearances.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1896 · Genre: Poetry, Inspirational, Urban · 299 words
First lines
You know that oasis, fresh and fair / In the city desert, as Greeley square?
That bright triangle of scented bloom / That lies surrounded by grime and gloom?
Right in the breast of the seething town / Like a gleaming gem or a wanton's gown?
Ah, wonderful things that tulip bed / Unto my listening soul has said.
Similar titles
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse and employs rhyme and meter.
- Inspirational — The themes focus on finding beauty and meaning in a harsh environment.
- Urban — The setting is a city square, emphasizing the contrast between nature and urban life.
- Philosophical — The text explores deeper existential themes and reflections on life.
Tags
Romance · Historical Fiction · American Literature · Women Authors · 19th Century · New York City · Greeley Square · Tulips · Flowers · Gardens · Love Story · Tragedy
What this Textopian page supports
The Tulip Bed At Greeley Square is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1896 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: 1896 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Inspirational, Urban, Philosophical, Nature
- Length: 299 words
- Structure: 1 section, 14 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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