The Well-Born by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
The story revolves around a wealthy and aristocratic family, focusing on the struggles of the protagonist, a young woman, who is torn between her duty to uphold the family's honor and her desire for personal freedom and happiness.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1893 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Social Commentary · 443 words
First lines
SO many people-people-in the world; So few great souls, love ordered, well begun, In answer to the fertile mother need! So few who seem The image of the Maker's mortal dream; So many born of mere propinquity- Of lustful habit, or of accident. Their mothers felt No mighty, all-compelling wish to see Their bosoms garden-places Abloom with flower faces; No tidal wave swept o'er them with its flood; No thrill of flesh or heart; no leap of blood; No glowing fire, flaming to white desire For mating and for motherhood: Yet they bore children.
What this Textopian page supports
The Well-Born is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1893 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: 1893 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Social Commentary, Spiritual, Literary
- Length: 443 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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- Work identity for The Well-Born by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
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Genres
- Poetry — The text is written in verse form with a focus on rhythm and meter.
- Philosophical — The themes explore deep questions about human existence, purpose, and the nature of birth and creation.
- Social Commentary — The work critiques societal norms and practices related to birth and motherhood.
- Spiritual — The text references divine intent and the spiritual aspects of creation and motherhood.
Tags
Romance · Novel · American Literature · 19th Century · Social Class · Family Drama · Marriage · Love Story · Wealth · Privilege · High Society · Social Status