poem of mourning crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're tackling the clue "poem of mourning," you've come to the right place. Below you'll find comprehensive answers categorized by letter count, along with detailed explanations to help you understand the solution and enhance your crossword skills.
Solutions for "poem of mourning crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
ELEGY: A mournful, melancholic, or plaintive poem, especially a lament for the dead.
DIRGE: A mournful song, piece of music, or poem, especially one composed or performed for a funeral.
More About "poem of mourning crossword clue"
The clue "poem of mourning" frequently appears in crosswords due to the specific and well-known literary terms associated with it. An elegy is a classic poetic form dedicated to commemorating the deceased or expressing deep sorrow over a loss. Famous examples include Thomas Gray's "Elegy Written in a Country Churchyard." Dirges, while also mournful, often have a more direct musical or ceremonial context, typically performed during funeral rites.
Understanding these distinctions can be beneficial not just for crosswords but for appreciating literary history. Crossword setters love these terms because they are precise and offer clear-cut answers. When you encounter this clue, always consider both 'elegy' and 'dirge' as primary candidates, then check the letter count and any intersecting letters to confirm the correct solution.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count First: For clues like "poem of mourning," the number of letters immediately narrows down your options. Both ELEGY and DIRGE are 5 letters, so if your puzzle calls for a different length, you know to look for alternatives like LAMENT (6 letters) or THRENODY (8 letters).
- Consider Common Synonyms: Think broadly about the meaning. "Mourning" can hint at grief, sorrow, or lamentation. "Poem" implies a specific literary form. Brainstorming synonyms for each part of the clue can reveal less obvious answers.
- Utilize Crossing Letters: Always fill in letters from clues you've already solved that intersect with your current one. These crossing letters are your most powerful tool for confirming or deducing the correct answer.
- Learn Common Crossword Tropes: Many crosswords reuse popular words for certain themes. Recognizing that "ELEGY" and "DIRGE" are common answers for this type of clue will significantly speed up your solving process.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an elegy and a dirge?
While both are poems of mourning, an elegy is typically a more formal, sustained reflection on loss, often not intended to be sung. A dirge, however, is specifically a song or hymn of mourning, usually performed at a funeral or burial service.
Are there other types of poems of mourning?
Yes, besides elegies and dirges, other forms include laments or threnodies. A lament is a passionate expression of grief or sorrow, while a threnody is a song, hymn, or poem of lamentation for the dead.
How do I find the right answer for a crossword clue like "poem of mourning"?
Look at the number of letters provided by the puzzle. Common answers are "ELEGY" (5 letters) or "DIRGE" (5 letters). Also, consider any crossing letters you already have, as they will narrow down the possibilities significantly.