Words and Thoughts
The poem explores the idea that words have power and can affect people's lives. It suggests that thoughts and words are intertwined and that the words we choose to speak can either uplift or destroy others. The speaker argues that harsh words can cause lasting pain, while gentle words can bring comfort and healing. The poem also touches on the idea of accountability, suggesting that individuals must take responsibility for the words they speak and the impact they have on others.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1885 · Genre: Poetry, Romance, Drama · 368 words
First lines
He said as he sat in her theatre box Between the acts, "What beastly weather! How like a parrot the lover talks -- And the lady is tame, and the villain stalks -- I hope they finally die together."
He thought -- "_You are fair as the dawn's first ray_; _I know the angels keep guard above you_. _And so I chatter of weather_, _and play_, _While all the time I am mad to say_, _I love you_, _love you_, _love you_."
What this Textopian page supports
Words and Thoughts is listed on Textopian as a poem by Ella Wheeler Wilcox, dated 1885 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: 1885 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Romance, Drama, Literary Fiction
- Length: 368 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Words and Thoughts 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
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- 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
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Genres
- Poetry — The text is structured in verse and employs poetic devices such as rhyme and meter.
- Romance — The themes revolve around love, passion, and unspoken emotions between characters.
- Drama — The narrative includes dramatic elements such as internal conflict and expressive dialogue.
- Literary Fiction — The work focuses on character development and explores complex emotional and psychological states.
Tags
Philosophy · Poetry · Inspirational · Motivational · Self-Help · Personal Growth · Mindfulness · Spirituality · Wellness · Positive Thinking · Optimism · Empowerment