A Lament by Oscar Wilde (1881)
The poem reflects on the contrasting experiences of individuals in society, particularly focusing on the themes of suffering, wealth, and spiritual elevation. It begins by lamenting the ease of those who live in comfort, shielded from the harsh realities of life. The speaker expresses a sense of envy towards those who are insulated from hardship, highlighting their ignorance of the struggles faced by the less fortunate. As the poem progresses, it shifts to acknowledge the value of suffering and toil. The speaker suggests that those who endure hardship and labor possess a deeper understanding of life and a closer connection to the divine. The imagery of building "ladders to be nearer God" symbolizes the transformative power of suffering, suggesting that through struggle, individuals can attain spiritual growth and enlightenment. The work ultimately juxtaposes the superficial happiness of the wealthy with the profound wisdom gained through adversity. It advocates for the recognition of the dignity found in labor and the spiritual rewards that come from overcoming life's challenges. The poem serves as a meditation on the human condition, emphasizing that true fulfillment often arises from the trials one faces rather than from material wealth or ease.
By Oscar Wilde · First published 1881 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Lyrical · 126 words
First lines
Αἴλινον, αἴλινον εἰπέ, τὸ δ' εὖ νικάτω
O well for him who lives at ease With garnered gold in wide domain, Nor heeds the splashing of the rain, The crashing down of forest trees.
O well for him who ne'er hath known The travail of the hungry years, A father grey with grief and tears, A mother weeping all alone.
But well for him whose foot hath trod The weary road of toil and strife, Yet from the sorrows of his life Builds ladders to be nearer God.
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A Lament is listed on Textopian as a poem by Oscar Wilde, dated 1881 CE.
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- Work type: Poem
- Author: Oscar Wilde
- Date: 1881 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Lyrical, Romanticism, Social Commentary
- Length: 126 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Similar titles
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- Madness by Joyce Kilmer
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- The Happiest Day by Edgar Allan Poe
- Maiden Melancholy by Ranier Maria Rilke
- From Spring Days To Winter by Oscar Wilde
Genres
- Poetry — The work is a lyrical poem that expresses deep emotions and reflections on life, suffering, and spirituality.
- Philosophical — The themes explore existential questions about suffering, toil, and the human condition.
- Lyrical — The writing style is characterized by personal expression and emotional intensity, typical of lyrical poetry.
- Romanticism — The poem reflects Romantic ideals, emphasizing individual experience and emotional depth.
Tags
Tragic · Poetic · Melancholic · Romantic · Literary · Philosophical · Symbolic · Metaphorical · Emotive · Introspective · Psychological · Existential