Worth While by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
The poem explores the idea that a life of virtue and good deeds is worthwhile despite the hardships and struggles one may face. It argues that a life of selfishness and sin will ultimately lead to regret and sorrow, while a life of kindness and generosity will bring joy and fulfillment. The speaker urges the reader to strive for goodness and to make their life worthwhile by doing good in the world.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1889 · Genre: Poetry, Inspirational, Philosophical · 258 words
First lines
It is easy enough to be pleasant When life flows by like a song, But the man worth while is the one who will smile When everything goes dead wrong. For the test of the heart is trouble, And it always comes with the years, And the smile that is worth the praises of earth Is the smile that shines through tears.
It is easy enough to be prudent When nothing tempts you to stray, When without or within no voice of sin Is luring your soul away; But it's only a negative virtue Until it is tried by fire, And the life that is worth the honour on earth Is the one that resists desire.
What this Textopian page supports
Worth While 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, Inspirational, Philosophical, Classical Literature
- Length: 258 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse and employs rhyme and meter.
- Inspirational — The themes focus on resilience, virtue, and overcoming adversity.
- Philosophical — The text explores deeper meanings of life, virtue, and human experience.
- Classical Literature — The writing style and themes are reflective of classical literary traditions.
Tags
Poetry · Inspirational · Motivational · Philosophical · Spiritual · Optimistic · Uplifting · Thought-provoking · Reflective · Contemplative · Personal growth · Self-improvement