Examples of Praise Poems for Grade 8 -9

Examples of Praise Poems for Grade 8 – 9

What are Praise Poems?

Praise poems, also known as panegyrics, are poetic compositions that celebrate and honor a person, entity, or object. These poems, originating from various cultures around the world, serve as tributes to commemorate achievements, virtues, and contributions. Praise poems are characterized by their elevated language, flattering descriptions, and celebratory tone.

Example 1: “Ode to Aphrodite” by Sappho

Aphrodite, subtle of soul and deathless,
Daughter of God, weaver of wiles, I pray thee
Neither with care, dread Mistress, nor with anguish,
            Slay thou my spirit!

But in pity hasten, come now if ever
From afar of old when my voice implored thee,
Thou hast deigned to listen, leaving the golden
            House of thy father

With thy chariot yoked; and with doves that drew thee,
Fair and fleet around the dark earth from heaven,
Dipping vibrant wings down he azure distance,
            Through the mid-ether;

Very swift they came; and thou, gracious Vision,
Leaned with face that smiled in immortal beauty,
Leaned to me and asked, “What misfortune threatened?
            Why I had called thee?”

“What my frenzied heart craved in utter yearning,
Whom its wild desire would persuade to passion?
What disdainful charms, madly worshipped, slight thee?
            Who wrongs thee, Sappho?”

“She that fain would fly, she shall quickly follow,
She that now rejects, yet with gifts shall woo thee,
She that heeds thee not, soon shall love to madness,
            Love thee, the loth one!”

Come to me now thus, Goddess, and release me
From distress and pain; and all my distracted
Heart would seek, do thou, once again fulfilling,
            Still be my ally!

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One of the most renowned praise poems comes from the ancient Greek poet Sappho. In her work “Ode to Aphrodite,” Sappho lauds the goddess of love and beauty, praising her radiant grace and mesmerizing charm. The poem captures Aphrodite’s divine allure and her ability to inspire passion and desire.

Example 2: “Ozymandias” by Percy Bysshe Shelley

I met a traveller from an antique land,

Who said—“Two vast and trunkless legs of stone

Stand in the desert. . . . Near them, on the sand,

Half sunk a shattered visage lies, whose frown,

And wrinkled lip, and sneer of cold command,

Tell that its sculptor well those passions read

Which yet survive, stamped on these lifeless things,

The hand that mocked them, and the heart that fed;

And on the pedestal, these words appear:

My name is Ozymandias, King of Kings;

Look on my Works, ye Mighty, and despair!

Nothing beside remains. Round the decay

Of that colossal Wreck, boundless and bare

The lone and level sands stretch far away.”

“Ozymandias” by Percy Bysshe Shelley is a classic example of a praise poem that takes a different approach. Rather than glorifying a deity or hero, Shelley’s poem celebrates the power and grandeur of a fallen king’s statue. The poem reflects on the transience of human achievements and the inevitable decay of empires, reminding readers of the ephemeral nature of earthly glory.

Example 3: “I Hear America Singing” by Walt Whitman

I hear America singing, the varied carols I hear,

Those of mechanics, each one singing his as it should be blithe and strong,

The carpenter singing his as he measures his plank or beam,

The mason singing his as he makes ready for work, or leaves off work,

The boatman singing what belongs to him in his boat, the deckhand singing on the steamboat deck,

The shoemaker singing as he sits on his bench, the hatter singing as he stands,

The wood-cutter’s song, the ploughboy’s on his way in the morning, or at noon intermission or at sundown,

The delicious singing of the mother, or of the young wife at work, or of the girl sewing or washing,

Each singing what belongs to him or her and to none else,

The day what belongs to the day—at night the party of young fellows, robust, friendly,

Singing with open mouths their strong melodious songs.

Walt Whitman’s “I Hear America Singing” is a modern praise poem that celebrates the diversity and vitality of the American people. Through vivid imagery and rhythmic language, Whitman portrays the hardworking individuals who contribute to the nation’s progress and prosperity. The poem exudes pride and admiration for the collective spirit of America and the individual contributions that enrich its tapestry.

Characteristics of Praise Poems

Praise poems, also known as panegyrics, possess distinctive characteristics that set them apart as poetic tributes. Here are some key traits:

1. Elevated Language

Praise poems employ language that is elevated and refined, often using poetic devices such as metaphors, similes, and symbolism to convey admiration and reverence.

2. Flattering Descriptions

These poems feature flattering descriptions of the subject, highlighting their virtues, achievements, and attributes in a positive light.

3. Celebratory Tone

The tone of praise poems is celebratory and exultant, reflecting the poet’s admiration and reverence for the subject. They often evoke a sense of pride and gratitude.

4. Historical or Cultural Context

Praise poems are often rooted in a specific historical or cultural context, reflecting the values, beliefs, and traditions of the society from which they originate.

5. Formal Structure

While the structure of praise poems can vary, they often adhere to formal poetic structures such as meter, rhyme scheme, and stanzaic organization, lending them a sense of rhythm and harmony.

6. Subject Matter

Praise poems can be dedicated to a wide range of subjects, including deities, heroes, rulers, artists, scientists, friends, or loved ones, celebrating their contributions, virtues, or influence.

7. Emotional Impact

These poems aim to evoke emotions such as admiration, awe, and inspiration in the reader, fostering a deeper appreciation for the subject and their significance.

8. Timelessness

Praise poems often possess a timeless quality, transcending temporal and cultural boundaries to resonate with readers across generations.

Praise poems serve as eloquent expressions of admiration and reverence, capturing the essence of their subjects in lyrical splendor. Through their elevated language, celebratory tone, and flattering descriptions, these poems pay homage to individuals, entities, or ideals, enriching our understanding of the human experience.

8 Types of Praise Poetry

Praise poetry, spanning various cultures and traditions, manifests in diverse forms and styles, each with its unique characteristics. Here are eight types of praise poetry:

1. Panegyric

Panegyric poems are elaborate tributes that extol the virtues and achievements of individuals, often political or military leaders, in a formal and ceremonious manner.

2. Epic

Epic poetry celebrates heroic figures and their deeds, recounting grand adventures and battles. Epics often incorporate elements of mythology and legend, glorifying legendary heroes and their exploits.

3. Ode

Odes are lyrical poems that express admiration and reverence for a particular subject, such as nature, art, or love. They feature elevated language and formal structure, conveying a sense of celebration and exaltation.

4. Hymn

Hymns are religious praise poems that honor deities or express devotion and gratitude towards the divine. They are often sung or recited as part of religious rituals or ceremonies.

5. Eulogy

Eulogies are poetic tributes that commemorate the life and achievements of individuals who have passed away. They celebrate the deceased’s contributions and legacy, offering comfort and solace to the bereaved.

6. Sonnet

Sonnets are fourteen-line poems with a specific rhyme scheme and structure. While they can explore various themes, sonnets dedicated to praise often express admiration for a beloved person or idealized concept.

7. Ballad

Ballads are narrative poems that tell a story through verse. While they can cover a range of subjects, praise ballads celebrate heroic deeds, romantic exploits, or legendary figures in a captivating and melodious manner.

8. Ghazal

Ghazals are poetic forms originating from Arabic and Persian literature. They consist of rhyming couplets and typically explore themes of love, longing, and spirituality. Praise ghazals express adoration for beloved individuals or divine entities with elegance and passion.

Praise poetry encompasses a rich tapestry of forms and styles, each offering a unique lens through which to celebrate and honor individuals, ideals, and divine entities. Whether through elaborate panegyrics, epic narratives, or lyrical odes, these poetic tributes enrich our understanding of the human experience and inspire admiration and reverence across cultures and generations.

Praise poems offer a window into the cultural values and ideals of societies throughout history. Whether honoring gods, rulers, or everyday people, these poetic tributes serve as expressions of admiration and gratitude, capturing the essence of their subjects in lyrical splendor.