An epigram is a very short poem—often just a couplet or quatrain—that delivers a sharp insight with wit and economy.
It’s memorable, quotable, and usually lands with a clever turn.
Common characteristics of epigrams:
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Brevity: Compact by design—typically 2–4 lines. Every word must carry weight.
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Wit & Turn: A striking twist, pun, or reversal near the end that reframes what came before.
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Pointed Closure: Ends with a memorable sting or aphoristic truth.
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Form & Music: Frequently rhymed couplets or quatrains; tight meter is common but not required.
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Subjects: Human foibles, social observation, moral insight—often ironic or satirical in tone.
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Aphoristic Quality: Reads like a polished maxim—quotable on its own.
From classical barbs to modern zingers, the epigram rewards precision: few lines, exact words, and one perfectly timed turn.