Solitude-summary

The poem “Solitude” by Ella Wheeler Wilcox  is a powerful exploration of an undeniable reality of human nature. There is a natural desire to seek out  happiness and cheer and to avoid pain and darkness. It is our tendency to move toward other people who are joyful and happy and full of positive energy. This is not necessarily a bad thing. In fact, I it is healthy to surround ourselves with people who are positive and encouraging and exhibit love, joy and peace. No one wants to be around those who are constantly negative, cynical, sarcastic and depressing. So in one sense, this poem is a clue to the reality that others are attracted to us if we are   cheerful and positive rather than negative and gloomy.

But  we should not ignore those around us who are hurting. Even though our natural tendency is to seek out joy and happiness , the reality is we should cultivate within ourselves a desire to help others in their time of need. We all go through difficult times and need help from others  who can reach out to us and draw us out of depression, pain and grief

Ella Wheeler Wilcox emphasizes the uncaring world by exploring not only how we humans often flee from those in pain, but how the earth itself is indifferent to human suffering:

“Sing and the hills will answer; Sigh, it is lost on the air”

Eventually, as the last lines explain, we will all travel down “the narrow aisles of pain”. And in some sense we have to be realistic that there are times when no one but God can ultimately save us and help us in our deepest and darkest hours. And while this poem is primarily a warning about our own destiny, it can serve as an exhortation to look around us to find others who need our help and support.

“Succeed and give, and it helps you live,”