Elegy
By Amanda Lovitt
The History of Elegy poems
Elegy poems can be traced back to 7th century B.C. It was widely used by Latin poet to express feelings of sadness or lament, usually for a deceased loved one. These poems usually end in consolation. The term "elegy" comes from the Greek word "elegeia".
Why are these types of poems written?
Elegy poems are usually written to express feelings of extreme sadness. They commemorate someone's life and gives the reader consolation on their loved one's death.
Characteristics of Elegy Poems
Elegy poems don't have a specific form, but they can be identified by the words in them
Example
With the farming of a verse
Make a vineyard of the curse,
Sing of human unsuccess
In a rapture of distress;
In the deserts of the heart
Let the healing fountain start,
In the prison of his days
Teach the free man how to praise.
Citations
"Elegy Poems." Poets.org. Academy of American Poets, n.d. Web. 04 Dec. 2014.
"Poetry: The Forms and the History Elegy." Poetry: The Forms and the History Elegy by Catherine Wilson. N.p., n.d. Web. 04 Dec. 2014.
"Elegy." Infoplease. Infoplease, n.d. Web. 04 Dec. 2014.