ballads

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Noun ballad has 2 senses

ballad, lay - a narrative song with a recurrent refrain
--₁ is a kind of song
--₁ has particulars: minstrelsy
ballad, lay - a narrative poem of popular origin
--₂ is a kind of poem, verse form
--₂ has particulars: Edda

Ballads

Description:

A ballad is a type of narrative poem or song that often tells a story, usually in a concise and rhythmic manner. Ballads can be traditional or composed in a modern style, and are typically accompanied by music. They are often characterized by their poetic and melodic qualities.

Senses and Usages:

1. Traditional Ballads

In the context of folk music and poetry, traditional ballads refer to songs that have been passed down orally from generation to generation. These ballads often have unknown authors and have been preserved through the oral tradition. Traditional ballads usually focus on tragic or romantic themes, and they often tell stories of love, death, and adventure.

Example Sentence: The traditional ballads he heard as a child were deeply ingrained in his memory.

2. Modern Ballads

Modern ballads are contemporary songs that follow the traditional ballad form. These ballads are usually composed by singer-songwriters and are commonly associated with popular music genres like pop, rock, or country. Modern ballads often explore themes of love, heartbreak, and personal experiences.

Example Sentence: Her latest album features heartfelt modern ballads that resonate with listeners.

3. Literary Ballads

Literary ballads are narrative poems that imitate the style and structure of traditional ballads. They are composed by individual poets and often published in written form. Literary ballads can cover a wide range of subjects and themes, and they aim to evoke emotions and captivate readers through storytelling.

Example Sentence: The poet's collection includes several powerful literary ballads inspired by historical events.

4. Ballads in Popular Culture

Ballads in popular culture refer to songs that have achieved great popularity and widespread acclaim. These ballads often become hits on the music charts and are frequently performed by well-known artists. Ballads in popular culture can express various emotions and stories, appealing to a wide audience.

Example Sentence: The singer's ballads from the 90s continue to resonate with fans and are considered iconic classics.

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