Monody

A monody is a poetic lament for a single person, a formal expression of grief, or a mournful ode. It typically expresses deep sorrow and loss, often delivered in a solo voice. Its structure can vary but frequently employs a serious, reflective tone and focuses on the qualities, virtues, and achievements of the deceased. The purpose of a monody is to console mourners and to immortalize the memory of the individual, serving as an elegy.

Monody meaning with examples

• Shelley's 'Adonais' is a monody written in memory of the poet John Keats. It moves through themes of grief, the transcendence of death, and the enduring power of art, creating a poignant and beautiful lament. The poem is deeply personal, as Shelley mourns the loss of a kindred spirit and fellow artist.
• Following the passing of his beloved dog, the man composed a monody, capturing his grief and the shared joy they found. The heartfelt verses expressed his deep sadness but were also filled with fond memories and heartfelt gratitude for the years of companionship and loyalty.
• At the memorial service, the acclaimed actress performed a monody, dedicated to her deceased mentor, expressing profound sadness, and highlighting the impact the mentor made on her career and life, as well as the indelible mark left on the theatre.
• The composer created a powerful monody for the orchestra, inspired by the loss of the artist's close friend and collaborator, featuring somber melodies and dissonant chords to convey the depth of emotion felt by the friend.