The Eternal Will

By Ella Wheeler Wilcox

Lyric Poem
    There is no thing we cannot overcome          Say not thy evil instinct is inherited,     Or that some trait inborn makes thy whole life forlorn,          And calls down punishment that is not merited.     Back of thy parents and grandparents lies          The Great Eternal Will.    That, too, is thine          Inheritance; strong, beautiful, divine,     Sure lever of success for one who tries.     Pry up thy faults with this great lever, Will.          However deeply bedded in propensity,     However firmly set, I tell thee firmer yet          Is that vast power that comes from Truth's immensity.     Thou art a part of that strange world, I say.          Its forces lie within thee, stronger far          Than all thy mortal sins and frailties are,     Believe thyself divine, and watch, and pray.     There is no noble height thou canst not climb.          All triumphs may be thine in Time's futurity,     If whatso'er thy fault, thou dost not faint or halt,          But lean upon the staff of God's security.     Earth has no claim the soul can not contest.          Know thyself part of that Eternal Source,          And naught can stand before thy spirit's force.     The soul's divine inheritance is best.

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poem is a deeply philosophical and inspiring piece, rooted in themes of personal strength, divine power, and the human potential to overcome. The tone is encouraging and uplifting, urging the reader to recognize their inherent power and their ability to surpass any challenge with the aid of divine will.

The poem's structure is well-ordered, employing a consistent rhyming pattern and rhythm that contribute to its overall message of order and harmony. The poet uses some standout literary devices, including personification of abstract concepts like Will and Truth, making them more tangible and approachable to the reader. The repeated use of the second person pronoun "thou" establishes an intimate conversation between the poet and the reader, further reinforcing the poem's core message.

Moreover, the poet beautifully uses metaphoric language, such as "Pry up thy faults with this great lever, Will" and "lean upon the staff of God's security," to paint vivid pictures of inner strength and spiritual support. The poem ultimately encourages self-belief, resilience, and the pursuit of personal growth, reminding readers that they are part of a greater, divine whole and that their "soul's divine inheritance is best."

Exploring Lyric Poetry

Lyric poetry is a powerful and intimate form of expression, characterized by its focus on the personal emotions and thoughts of the poet. Often musical in nature, lyric poems resonate with readers through their vivid language and rhythmic flow, capturing moments of intense feeling.

Here are some key characteristics that define lyric poetry:

  • Expressive Language: Lyric poems use rich and evocative language to convey deep emotions, often painting a vivid picture of the poet's inner world.
  • Personal Perspective: Typically written in the first person, these poems offer a window into the poet's personal experiences, thoughts, and reflections.
  • Musicality: Lyric poems often feature a rhythmic structure, with meter and rhyme that give them a song-like quality, enhancing the emotional impact.

From ancient odes to contemporary free verse, lyric poetry remains a beloved and enduring form, celebrated for its ability to articulate the nuances of human emotion in a way that resonates deeply with readers.