New York State Teacher Certification Examinations (NYSTCE) Early Childhood Practice Test

Which type of poem is typically shorter and expresses deep feelings or ideas?

1. Epic

2. Lyric

3. Free Verse

4. Sonnet

The correct answer is: Lyric

The correct answer is lyric poetry, which is known for its focus on expressing personal emotions, thoughts, or ideas in a concise form. Lyric poems are typically shorter than epics and can capture intense feelings, often employing musicality or rhythm to enhance their emotional impact. This type of poetry tends to convey a single emotional experience or moment rather than recounting a narrative or story, which distinguishes it from epic poetry, which is lengthier and focused on grand themes or events. While free verse allows for flexibility in structure and does not adhere to a specific rhyme or meter, it can vary greatly in length and does not necessarily focus exclusively on expressing deep feelings like lyric poetry does. Sonnets, though also shorter and often rich in emotion, have a specific structure and follow a formal rhyme scheme, making them a distinct form from the broader category of lyric poems. Therefore, when identifying which type of poem is typically shorter and conveys deep feelings or ideas, lyric poetry stands out as the most accurate choice.