They Shall Not Win
The poem explores the theme of perseverance and defiance in the face of adversity. The speaker asserts that despite being battered and bruised, they will not be defeated, and their spirit will remain unbroken. The poem conveys a sense of determination and resilience, emphasizing the importance of standing strong against oppressive forces.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1916 · Genre: Poetry, War Literature, Inspirational · 171 words
First lines
Whatever the strength of our foes is now, Whatever it may have been, This is our slogan, and this our vow- They shall not win, they shall not win.
Though out of the darkness they call the aid Of the evil forces of Sin, We utter our slogan unafraid- They shall not win, they shall not win.
We know we are right, and know they are wrong, So to God above and within- We make our vow and we sing our song They shall not win, they shall not win.
It rises over the shriek of shell, And over the cannons' din: Our slogan shall scatter the hosts of Hell- They shall not win, they shall not win.
What this Textopian page supports
They Shall Not Win is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1916 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: 1916 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, War Literature, Inspirational, Religious, Patriotic
- Length: 171 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for They Shall Not Win by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering They Shall Not Win?
- How does this poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- The Song Of The Allies by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Obstacles by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- The Paean Of Peace by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- The Hymn Of The Republic by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Assertion by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Strength by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
Genres
- Poetry — The text is structured in verse and employs rhyme and meter.
- War Literature — The themes revolve around conflict, battle, and resistance against foes.
- Inspirational — The work aims to motivate and uplift with a strong, defiant message.
- Religious — References to God and moral righteousness are present.
Tags
Patriotism · War · Poetry · Inspiration · Motivation · Freedom · Liberty · Democracy · Courage · Determination · Resilience · Strength