Wherefore? by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
The poem explores the theme of unrequited love and the consequences of societal expectations on individual desires. The narrator reflects on a past relationship that was doomed from the start due to differences in social class, lamenting the loss of a loved one who was forced to marry another for material security.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1889 · Genre: Poetry, Romance, Drama · 281 words
First lines
Wherefore in dreams are sorrows borne anew, / A healed wound opened, or the past revived? / Last night in my deep sleep I dreamed of you; / Again the old love woke in me, and thrived / On looks of fire, and kisses, and sweet words / Like silver waters purling in a stream, / Or like the amorous melodies of birds: / A dream -- a dream!
Again upon the glory of the scene / There settled that dread shadow of the cross / That, when hearts love too well, falls in between; / That warns them of impending woe and loss. / Again I saw you drifting from my life, / As barques are rudely parted in a stream; / Again my heart was torn with awful strife: / A dream -- a dream!
What this Textopian page supports
Wherefore? 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: Poetry, Romance, Drama, Philosophical, Psychological
- Length: 281 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Wherefore? by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Genres
- Poetry — The text is written in verse form with a focus on rhythm, meter, and imagery.
- Romance — The themes revolve around love, longing, and emotional connection.
- Drama — The narrative includes intense emotional experiences and conflicts.
- Philosophical — The text explores deep questions about existence, dreams, and reality.
Tags
Philosophy · Poetry · Spirituality · Mystery · Existentialism · Free Verse · American Literature · Early 20th Century · Women Authors · Inspirational · Motivational · Self-Discovery