What We Want by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
The poem explores the theme of desire and its consequences. It describes a person who has everything they want, but still feels empty and unhappy. The speaker reflects on how people often strive for material possessions and wealth, only to find that it does not bring them fulfillment. The poem suggests that true happiness comes from within and that one should focus on cultivating inner virtues rather than external desires.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1889 · Genre: Social Commentary, Poetry, Political · 372 words
First lines
All hail the dawn of a new day breaking, When a strong-armed nation shall take away The weary burdens from backs that are aching With maximum labour and minimum pay; When no man is honoured who hoards his millions; When no man feasts on another's toil; And God's poor suffering, striving billions Shall share His riches of sun and soil.
There is gold for all in the earth's broad bosom, There is food for all in the land's great store; Enough is provided if rightly divided; Let each man take what he needs -- no more. Shame on the miser with unused riches, Who robs the toiler to swell his hoard, Who beats down the wage of the digger of ditches, And steals the bread from the poor man's board.
What this Textopian page supports
What We Want is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1889 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: 1889 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Social Commentary, Poetry, Political, Inspirational
- Length: 372 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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Genres
- Social Commentary — The text critiques economic inequality and advocates for fair distribution of wealth and resources.
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhyme and meter to convey its message.
- Political — The themes address governance, labor rights, and social justice, calling for systemic change.
- Inspirational — The text aims to inspire action and change, promoting a vision of a fairer society.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · Romance · Love · Relationships · Desire · Longing · Human Nature · Emotions · Passion · Intimacy · Sensuality