Definition, meaning, forms and characteristics of Lyric
According to Wikipedia, 'lyric poetry is a formal type of poetry which expresses personal emotions or feelings, typically spoken in the first person'. Lyric poetry refers to a short poem, often with songlike qualities, that expresses the speaker’s personal emotions, feelings, and thoughts. It is a non-narrative poem and sometimes confessional
The word Lyric is derived from the word Lyre. It is a musical instrument. The poems which could be sung on a lyre were known as lyrics in Greek poetry.
It is often presented from the first-person view of the speaker of the poem or from the point of view of another character. The lyric verse is frequently, but not always, told in the present tense. Common characteristics of lyric poetry include the use of figurative languages such as metaphors and similes, and intense descriptions of emotions, experiences, and observations. Major types of lyric poetry include well-known forms such as the Sonnet, Tanka, Ode, and Elegy.
Different Forms
Lyric poetry can take different forms, from fairly standardized types like sonnets and villanelles to free verse. While all types of lyric poetry share a general tendency toward the expression of individual feelings, different forms have special emphases.
- An ode, for example, is a heightened address toward a person, place, idea, or other subjects.
- An elegy, on the other hand, is focused on reflecting on loss, lamentation, or other serious subjects.
- Sonnets are frequently associated with the subject of love.
Characteristics of Lyric Poetry
The chief characteristics of lyric poetry are:
- Shortness
Generally, lyric poetry is short in nature. Sonnets are the best examples of the shortness of lyric poetry. But there are some long lyrics too like Ode to the West Wind, The Raven etc.
2. Simplicity
Simplicity is a prominent feature of a good lyric. Every lyric poetry is composed in such a language that every person can understand it easily.
3. Subjectivity
A lyric is always an expression of the moods and emotions of a poet. The best lyrics are emotional in tone. Every poet tries his best to give vent to his internal feelings and emotions and communicates with the readers through the means of a lyric.
4. Musicality
One of the most important qualities of a lyric is its musical quality. The poets use various literary devices to enhance the music of their lyrics.
5. Intensity
It is characterized by intensity and poignancy. The best lyrics are the expressions of intensely felt emotions. It comes directly out of the heart of the poet, and so goes directly to the heart of the readers.
6. Spontaneity
Spontaneity is another important quality of a lyric. The lyric poet sings in strains of unpremeditated art. He sings effortlessly because he must, because of the inner urge for self-expression.
