Will by Ella Wheeler Wilcox (1909)
The poem explores the theme of lost love and longing. The speaker reflects on a past relationship that has ended, and they are left to ponder what could have been if their lover had stayed with them. The poem expresses a deep sense of yearning and regret, as the speaker acknowledges that they will never be reunited with their beloved in this life or the next.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1909 · Genre: Poetry, Inspirational, Philosophical · 190 words
First lines
You will be what you will to be; Let failure find its false content In that poor word "environment," But spirit scorns it, and is free,
It masters time, it conquers space, It cows that boastful trickster Chance, And bids the tyrant Circumstance Uncrown and fill a servant's place.
The human Will, that force unseen, The offspring of a deathless Soul, Can hew the way to any goal, Though walls of granite intervene.
Be not impatient in delay, But wait as one who understands; When spirit rises and commands, The gods are ready to obey.
What this Textopian page supports
Will is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1909 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: 1909 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Inspirational, Philosophical, Motivational
- Length: 190 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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Similar titles
- Foes by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Will by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- What We Want by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- More Fortunate by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Half Fledged by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Sympathy by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse and employs rhyme and meter.
- Inspirational — The themes focus on self-determination, willpower, and overcoming obstacles.
- Philosophical — The text explores abstract concepts such as the human spirit, destiny, and the power of the will.
- Motivational — The content aims to encourage and motivate readers to achieve their goals.
Tags
Romance · Poetry · Love · Relationships · Emotions · Passion · Desire · Longing · Heartbreak · Sorrow · Melancholy · Reflection