Figures of Speech Epigram
An epigram in literature is a witty statement, often satirical, paradoxical, or humorous, that suggests a universal truth. Epigrams are typically short poems or prose pieces and are known for their shortness and clever use of language. The term “epigram” has its roots in ancient Greek literature, where it referred to the inscription on a monument or statue. One of the most famous practitioners of the epigram was the ancient Greek poet and philosopher Epictetus. In English literature, the 17th-century poet and satirist John Donne was known for his use of epigrams. Here’s an example of an epigram by Oscar Wilde:
“I can resist everything except temptation.”
This statement is brief, clever, and contains a play on words, making it a classic example of an epigram.
Functions of Epigram:
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- Concise Wit: Epigrams use brevity and cleverness to convey profound ideas or humour in a few words, making them memorable and impactful.
- Social Commentary: Often, epigrams serve as a tool for social commentary. It allows authors to criticize societal norms, behaviours, or individuals subtly.
- Reflection of Truth: Epigrams reveal universal truths or insightful observations.
- Emotional Impact: Epigrams can evoke strong emotions by capturing the essence of complex feelings or situations, creating a powerful connection with the reader.
- Memorability: Epigrams are easily memorable. They stick in the reader’s mind, allowing the author’s message or wit to linger.
Examples:
1. Cowards die many times before their death,
The valiant never taste of death but once. [Shakespeare]
Ans: This is an example of epigram. The statement seems shocking because of the verbal contradiction of cowards dying many times before the actual death, but a little thinking acquaints it with a deeper meaning. A man can’t die more than once. But here, the suggestion is that a man meets physical death once, but he may suffer death-like condition more than once. The function of this epigram is to rouse our attention to some important meaning underneath.
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Previous Years Questions and Solutions
NTRCA Exam-2010, 2012, 2014
1. Our sweetest songs are those that tell of saddest thought. [Shelley]
Ans. This is an example of an epigram. The statement seems shocking because the song songs of saddest thought are said to be “sweetest”. But from our personal experience, we know that songs made of light thoughts do not appear to us as pleasing as those made of saddest thoughts. The function of this epigram is to rouse our attention to some important meaning underneath.
NTRCA Exam-2011
1. Fools rush in where angels fear to tread.
Ans. This is an example of an epigram. There is a contradiction in the statement that how fools attempt things that the wise avoid. But there is a deeper truth underneath because wise people are very careful in their dealings with others. They think twice before doing something. They won’t jump into anything which endangers their safety. But foolish people are hasty in their actions. They won’t think much of the consequences of their actions. They don’t realize the dangers that await them when they take up risky enterprise. The function of this epigram is to rouse our attention to some important meaning underneath.
NTRCA Exam-2013
1. Heard melodies are sweet, but those unheard
Are sweeter. [Keats]
Ans. This is an example of an epigram. The statement seems shocking because of how unheard melodies can be sweeter than those heard. But there is a deeper truth underneath because unheard melodies appear to be sweeter than heard melodies on account of the role of imagination in the unheard melodies. The function of this epigram is to rouse our attention to some important meaning underneath.
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NTRCA Exam-17th
1. Art lies in concealing art
Ans: This epigram conveys that true artistry involves making the creative process appear effortless and natural. This hides the complexities and effort behind the final work. It suggests that the mastery of an art form is often best appreciated when the artist’s skill is seamlessly integrated and not overly noticeable. The function of the epigram “Art lies in concealing art” is to convey that true artistry is achieved when the skill and effort behind creation are seamlessly integrated.
