The Year by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
The poem explores the passing of time and its effects on human life. It describes the year as a series of events that unfold rapidly, with each season bringing its own set of experiences and emotions. The speaker reflects on how the year has changed them, from the optimism of spring to the melancholy of winter.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1887 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Reflective · 132 words
First lines
What can be said in New Year rhymes, That's not been said a thousand times?
The new years come, the old years go, We know we dream, we dream we know.
We rise up laughing with the light, We lie down weeping with the night.
We hug the world until it stings, We curse it then and sigh for wings.
What this Textopian page supports
The Year is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1887 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: 1887 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Reflective, Literary
- Length: 132 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Year by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
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Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering The Year?
- How does this poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
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Similar titles
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse and employs rhyme and meter.
- Philosophical — The themes explore existential questions and the cyclical nature of life.
- Reflective — The content reflects on human experiences and emotions throughout the year.
- Literary — The writing style is sophisticated and employs literary devices.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · Romance · Love · Nature · Seasons · Philosophy · Reflection · Meditation · Spirituality · Growth · Change