Lyric Poetry: Definition, Characteristics, and Types

Poetry as a Literary Genre

Lyric Poetry: An Introduction

Lyric poetry is any poetic composition in which the author expresses their feelings subjectively. Written in both verse and poetic prose, it aims to create a connotative, evocative, and polysemous world. The result is a well-developed piece, full of artifice and expressive density.

The Language of Lyric Poetry

Three lyrical attitudes exist between reality (matter) and the poet:

• Lyrical Emotion: The poet's external reality inspires the composition.
• Lyrical Apostrophe: The poet addresses a "you" that is the constant reference of the poem, engaging in lyrical dialogue.
• Language of the Song: The author, attentive only to their ego, presents their vision of reality or their inner world. This is the most lyrical form.

The Evolution of Lyric Poetry

Originating from the Greeks, lyric poetry was initially sung to the accompaniment of a lyre. It continued to be sung in its simplest and most popular forms. However, cultured poetry, from the 15th century onwards, lost its musical accompaniment and became reserved for reading or recitation. Lyric poetry, as we have seen, is distinguished by its brevity and greater variety compared to dramatic or epic poetry.

The Purpose of Lyric Poetry

The purpose of lyric poetry is essentially aesthetic; that is, it intends to produce beauty. The poetic text is characterized by:

• Predominance of the Poetic Function of Language: The text draws attention to itself through its original construction, distinguishing it from normal use and acquiring new significance.
• Connotation: This is especially relevant in poetry. The poetic word is not limited to a single meaning. Unlike common language, it is not a simple replacement of the object referred to. Instead, its meaning is accompanied by various suggestions and senses that can only be understood in context.
• Multiple Meanings (Polysemy): The literary text always supports more than one reading.
• Fiction: Poetic worlds are not real, but they may be possible. Some authors speak of imagination, expression, or literary artifice, all of which hold equal value. Aristotle noted a difference between poetry (literature) and history. Literature is the story of what could happen, while history is a narrative of what has happened.