Skip to content

ELEGY, n. A composition in verse, in which, without…

“ELEGY, n. A composition in verse, in which, without employing any of the methods of humor, the writer aims to produce in the reader's mind the dampest kind of dejection.” quote by Ambrose Bierce
Download Open image
“ELEGY, n. A composition in verse, in which, without employing any of the methods of humor, the writer aims to produce in the reader's mind the dampest kind of dejection.”

Ambrose Bierce

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

An elegy is a solemn verse designed to evoke deep sorrow without resorting to humor.

In simple terms: Serious mournful poem

Key Takeaway

Elegy’s purpose

Themes

poetry mourning tone definition

Mood

somber reflective

Type

definition literary criticism

When to use this quote

  • writing workshop
  • literary analysis

Key Concepts

literary form

Practical Applications

  • poetry anthology
  • lecture on poetic forms

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why avoid humor in an elegy?
  • How does diction shape the feeling of dejection?
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Ambrose Bierce

Explore all 1,157 Ambrose Bierce quotes

More Aim quotes

Browse all 3,047 Aim quotes