threnodía

Threnody is a poem or song of lamentation. It is a musical composition, often for a chorus, that expresses sorrow or grief. The term originates from the Greek word thrēnōidia, meaning "wailing song." Threnodies are typically composed to mourn the death of a person or to commemorate a tragic event.

Historically, threnodies have been used in various cultures to provide a public outlet for grief and remembrance. They often employ somber melodies and poignant lyrics to evoke feelings of sadness and loss. The structure of a threnody can vary, but it generally focuses on themes of mortality, the passage of time, and the impact of loss.

In literature, a threnody is a poem of mourning, often characterized by its elegiac tone and reflections on the deceased. Notable examples can be found in classical poetry as well as later literary traditions. While the term is primarily associated with vocal music and poetry, it can also be applied to instrumental pieces that convey a similar sense of lament. The purpose of a threnody is to provide solace through shared expression of sorrow and to honor the memory of what has been lost.