Wishes by Ella Wheeler Wilcox (1883)
The poem explores the idea that wishes can have unintended consequences and that one should be careful what they wish for. The speaker reflects on past wishes that have been granted but ultimately led to sorrow and regret. The poem concludes by suggesting that true happiness comes from within and that one should focus on cultivating inner peace rather than relying on external desires.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1883 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Inspirational · 279 words
First lines
Whatever you want, if you wish for it long, With constant yearning and fervent desire, If your wish soars upward on wings so strong That they never grow languid and never tire, --
Why, over the storm clouds and out of the dark It shall come flying some day to you. As the dove with the olive branch flew to the ark, And the dream you have cherished -- it shall come true.
But lest much rapture shall make you mad, Or too bright sunshine should strike you blind, Along with your blessing a something sad Shall come like a shadow that follows behind.
Something unwelcome and unforeseen, Yet of your hope and your wish, a part, Shall stand like a sentinel in between The perfect joy and the human heart.
What this Textopian page supports
Wishes 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, Philosophical, Inspirational, Romantic, Classical Literature
- Length: 279 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Wishes by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Wishes?
- How does this poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
- The Undiscovered Country by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Compensations by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Old Rhythm And Rhyme by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- New And Old by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Time And Love by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- Shrines by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
Genres
- Poetry — The text is written in verse with a focus on rhythm and meter.
- Philosophical — The themes explore deep questions about human desire and the nature of happiness.
- Inspirational — The content aims to inspire and motivate readers to reflect on their wishes and aspirations.
- Romantic — The language and imagery evoke a sense of longing and emotional depth.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · Romanticism · Love Poems · Nature Inspired · Optimistic · Inspirational · Motivational · Uplifting · Spiritual · Philosophical · Contemplative