The Two Kinds of People

Ella Wheeler Wilcox's The Two Kinds of People

Ella Wheeler Wilcox’s The Two Kinds of People is a deceptively simple yet profoundly insightful poem that explores the dichotomy of human behavior and character. Written in her characteristic accessible style, the poem distills complex social and moral truths into a concise, rhythmic form. Wilcox, a popular American poet of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, was known for her optimistic and morally instructive verse, often addressing themes of human nature, social responsibility, and personal growth. This poem, like much of her work, reflects her belief in the power of individual agency and the importance of contributing positively to the collective human experience.

Historical and Cultural Context

To fully appreciate The Two Kinds of People, it is essential to situate it within its historical and cultural milieu. Wilcox wrote during a period of significant social and economic change in the United States, marked by industrialization, urbanization, and the rise of the Progressive Era. These transformations brought about both opportunities and challenges, including widening economic disparities, labor struggles, and debates over social responsibility. Wilcox’s poetry often resonated with the middle-class readership of her time, offering moral guidance and encouragement in the face of societal upheaval.

The poem’s focus on the dichotomy between “lifters” and “leaners” can be seen as a reflection of the Progressive Era’s emphasis on self-reliance, hard work, and communal responsibility. The idea of “lifting” aligns with the ethos of the “self-made man,” a cultural ideal that celebrated individual effort and perseverance. Conversely, the “leaners” represent those who rely on others, a behavior often criticized in a society that valued productivity and moral fortitude. Wilcox’s poem, therefore, serves as both a moral exhortation and a social commentary, urging readers to examine their own roles within their communities.

Structure and Form

Wilcox employs a straightforward structure and form that enhance the poem’s accessibility and memorability. The poem consists of twelve quatrains, each following an AABB rhyme scheme. This regularity in rhyme and meter creates a musical quality, making the poem easy to read and recite. The consistent rhythm mirrors the poem’s thematic focus on balance and duality, reinforcing the idea of two distinct kinds of people.

The use of quatrains also allows Wilcox to present her ideas in a clear, organized manner. Each stanza builds on the previous one, gradually narrowing the focus from broad categories (e.g., sinners and saints, rich and poor) to the central dichotomy of “lifters” and “leaners.” This structural progression mirrors the poem’s intellectual argument, guiding the reader toward a deeper understanding of its moral message.

Literary Devices

Wilcox’s use of literary devices is both effective and economical, contributing to the poem’s emotional and intellectual impact. One of the most prominent devices is contrast, which is central to the poem’s theme. From the opening lines, Wilcox sets up a series of binary oppositions—sinner and saint, rich and poor, humble and proud, happy and sad—only to dismiss them as inadequate descriptors of human character. This technique not only engages the reader’s attention but also underscores the poem’s central argument: that the most meaningful distinction between people lies in their willingness to contribute to the well-being of others.

Another key device is repetition, which serves to emphasize the poem’s central message. The phrase “two kinds of people” is repeated throughout the poem, creating a refrain-like effect that reinforces the dichotomy between lifters and leaners. This repetition also lends the poem a didactic quality, characteristic of Wilcox’s work, as it drives home the moral lesson with clarity and insistence.

Wilcox also employs imagery to evoke the physical and emotional realities of lifting and leaning. The image of “overtaxed lifters, who toil down the road” conjures a vivid picture of individuals burdened by the weight of their responsibilities, while the leaners are depicted as passive figures who “let others share / Your portion of labor, and worry and care.” These images not only illustrate the poem’s central contrast but also elicit an emotional response, encouraging readers to empathize with the lifters and reflect on their own behavior.

Themes

The central theme of The Two Kinds of People is the moral and social responsibility of individuals within a community. Wilcox challenges readers to consider whether they are contributing to the collective good or relying on the efforts of others. This theme is particularly relevant in the context of the Progressive Era, when questions of social justice and communal responsibility were at the forefront of public discourse.

Another important theme is the duality of human nature. While Wilcox acknowledges that people cannot be easily categorized as wholly good or bad, she suggests that their actions—specifically, their willingness to lift or lean—reveal their true character. This nuanced understanding of human nature reflects Wilcox’s belief in the potential for personal growth and moral improvement.

The poem also explores the theme of balance, both in individual lives and in society as a whole. The disproportionate ratio of lifters to leaners (“one lifter to twenty who lean”) highlights the strain placed on those who bear the brunt of societal responsibilities. This imbalance serves as a call to action, urging readers to consider how they can contribute to a more equitable distribution of labor and care.

Emotional Impact

One of the most striking aspects of The Two Kinds of People is its ability to connect with readers on an emotional level. Wilcox’s use of relatable imagery and straightforward language makes the poem accessible, while its moral message resonates with universal human experiences. The poem’s emphasis on empathy and responsibility encourages readers to reflect on their own actions and relationships, fostering a sense of accountability and compassion.

The emotional impact of the poem is further enhanced by its tone, which is both earnest and encouraging. While Wilcox does not shy away from critiquing the behavior of leaners, she avoids a judgmental or punitive tone. Instead, she appeals to the reader’s sense of fairness and decency, inviting them to align themselves with the lifters. This approach reflects Wilcox’s belief in the power of poetry to inspire positive change, both in individuals and in society.

Conclusion

Ella Wheeler Wilcox’s The Two Kinds of People is a timeless exploration of human character and social responsibility. Through its clear structure, effective use of literary devices, and compelling themes, the poem offers a powerful moral lesson that remains relevant today. By challenging readers to examine their own roles within their communities, Wilcox encourages a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of human lives and the importance of contributing to the collective good.

In its historical context, the poem reflects the values and concerns of the Progressive Era, while its universal themes and emotional resonance ensure its enduring appeal. Wilcox’s ability to distill complex ideas into accessible verse demonstrates her skill as a poet and her commitment to using poetry as a force for moral and social improvement. Ultimately, The Two Kinds of People is a testament to the power of poetry to inspire reflection, empathy, and action, reminding us of the profound impact our choices can have on the world around us.