figurepoem

A figurepoem is a type of visual poetry where the arrangement of words and letters on the page creates a shape or image related to the poem's subject. Also known as concrete poetry or shape poetry, this form merges literary content with visual art. The visual aspect is integral to the poem's meaning, often reinforcing or complementing the verbal message.

The history of figurepoetry can be traced back to ancient Greek poems written in the Hellenistic period, such as those by Simmias of Rhodes. These early examples often featured poems in the shape of wings, an egg, and a lyre. The practice saw revivals throughout literary history, with notable examples in the Renaissance and later in the 20th century. The term "concrete poetry" gained prominence in the mid-20th century with movements in Brazil and Europe.

Figurepoems can take on a wide variety of forms, limited only by the poet's imagination and the subject matter. A poem about a tree might be arranged in the shape of a tree trunk and branches, while a poem about a heart could be shaped like a heart. The typography, spacing, and layout are carefully considered to enhance the overall impact. The reader's experience of a figurepoem involves both reading the words and perceiving the image, creating a multi-sensory engagement with the text.