Unrest by Ella Wheeler Wilcox (1890)
The poem explores the theme of a troubled mind and the consequences of suppressing emotions. The speaker describes their inner turmoil, feeling like they are drowning in a sea of unrest, with no escape from their anguish. They lament that they have lost touch with nature and humanity, and that their heart is filled with bitterness and despair.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1890 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Romantic · 379 words
First lines
In the youth of the year, when the birds were building, When the green was showing on tree and hedge, And the tenderest light of all lights was gilding The world from zenith to outermost edge, My soul grew sad and longingly lonely! I sighed for the season of sun and rose, And I said, "In the Summer and that time only Lies sweet contentment and blest repose."
With bee and bird for her maids of honour Came Princess Summer in robes of green. And the King of day smiled down upon her And wooed her, and won her, and made her queen. Fruit of their union and true love's pledges, Beautiful roses bloomed day by day, And rambled in gardens and hid in hedges Like royal children in sportive play.
What this Textopian page supports
Unrest is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1890 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: 1890 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Romantic, Nature, Reflective
- Length: 379 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Similar titles
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- Fleeing Away by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
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- The Breaking Of Chains by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
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- No Place by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse and employs poetic devices such as rhyme and meter.
- Philosophical — The themes explore existential questions and the search for contentment and rest.
- Romantic — The imagery and language evoke romantic elements, particularly in the depiction of nature and seasons.
- Nature — The text frequently references natural elements like birds, trees, and seasons, emphasizing their beauty and cycles.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · Feminist Literature · Social Commentary · Philosophical · Psychological Insight · Emotional Depth · Introspective · Personal Growth · Self-Discovery · Spirituality · Mysticism