Why Should We Sigh
The poem explores the idea that people should not sigh over past mistakes or lost opportunities, but instead focus on living in the present and making the most of it. It emphasizes the importance of moving forward and finding happiness in the current moment, rather than dwelling on what could have been. The speaker argues that sighing is a waste of time and energy, and that people should strive to be content with their lives as they are.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1883 · Genre: Poetry, Inspirational, Romance · 230 words
First lines
Why should we sigh o'er a summer that's dead -- Let us think of the summer to be. It always better to look ahead, For the rose will come again just as red And just as fair to see.
Why should we weep o'er a pleasure past -- Let us look for the pleasure to be. New shells on the shore by new waves are cast; Let us prize each new joy more than the last, And laugh if the old joy flee.
What folly to die for a love that was -- Let us live for the one to be. For time is passing, and will not pause; How foolish the shore were it sad because One wave ebbed out to sea.
What this Textopian page supports
Why Should We Sigh is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1883 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: 1883 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Inspirational, Romance, Philosophical
- Length: 230 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Similar titles
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Genres
- Poetry — The text is structured in verse and employs rhyme and meter.
- Inspirational — The themes focus on optimism, looking forward, and finding joy in the future.
- Romance — The text discusses love and its enduring nature.
- Philosophical — The work contemplates the nature of time, memory, and existence.
Tags
Philosophy · Poetry · Inspiration · Motivation · Optimism · Life Lessons · Self-Help · Spirituality · Well-being · Mindfulness · Positive Thinking · Personal Growth