5 Must-Read Epistle Poems

Epistle poems are written as letters addressed to a specific person or group. This poetic form has roots in classical literature, where letters were used to communicate ideas, feelings, and philosophical reflections.

Epistle poems can be intimate and personal or may carry a more didactic tone, offering advice or imparting wisdom. The structure and content of epistle poems vary widely, providing poets a versatile platform for self-expression and exploring diverse themes.

This form allows for a sense of direct address, creating a conversational tone that connects the poet and the reader uniquely and engagingly.

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"> 89/100

dear white america

by Danez Smith

‘dear white america’ by Danez Smith is a fearless cry for racial equality, exploring concerns of injustice as well as the unwavering hope for a just society for everyone.

This poem is one of the finest examples of an epistle written in the 21st century and continues a rich literary tradition when it comes to the form. The directness offered by the letter-like layout of the poem emphaises the strength of Smith's message. Moreover, the fact that there is no means by which readers can 'reply' to the poem suggests that Smith wishes their poem to be the last word on the matter.

i’ve left Earth in search of darker planets, a solar system revolving too near a black hole. i’ve left in search of a new God. i do not trust the God you have given us. my grandmother’s hallelujah is

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Ars Poetica

by Horace

The ‘Ars Poetica’ is a 476-line didactic epistolary poem by the Roman poet Horace. This humorous, engaging verse teaches the wannabe poet how to write good stories and develop meaningful art.

This poem is written as a letter or a series of letters to the Roman poet Piso, in which Horace offers advice and guidance on the art of poetry. This form is known as an epistle.

Either follow tradition, or invent consistently.

If you happen to portray Achilles, honoured,

Pen him as energetic, irascible, ruthless,

Fierce, above the law, never downing weapons.

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Epistle to a Young Friend

by Robert Burns

Presented as compact packages of advices, ‘Epistle to a Young Friend’ is a lovely and melodious representation of life’s complexities.

An epistle is a form of literary work that is written in the form of a letter or message. In 'Epistle to a Young Friend,' the speaker's intent is to convey his thoughts and advice to help a friend follow the right path in life. It takes the form of a personal letter, showing concern and care and offering guidance and wisdom to a young friend.

I lang hae thought, my youthfu’ friend,

A Something to have sent you,

Tho’ it should serve nae other end

Than just a kind memento;

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Before the Birth of One of Her Children

by Anne Bradstreet

‘Before the Birth of One of Her Children’ by Anne Bradstreet is a moving poem about a woman’s opinion on death. Inspired by her pregnancy, the speaker pens this epistolary to her husband.

The poem takes the form of an epistle, as it’s written like a heartfelt letter from the speaker to her husband. This choice makes the poem personal and direct, letting the speaker share her deepest fears, love, and hopes in an intimate way. By using an epistle, she creates a sense of closeness, as if she’s speaking directly to him in her final words, strengthening their bond even in her absence.

All things within this fading world hath end,

Adversity doth still our joyes attend;

No ties so strong, no friends so dear and sweet,

But with death’s parting blow is sure to meet.

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Letter to My Great, Great, Grandchild

by J.P. Grasser

‘Letter to My Great, Great, Grandchild’ by J.P. Grasser is a powerful poem about the climate crisis. Throughout, the poet alludes to terrible planetary changes that occur in only a few generations.

Oh button, don’t go thinking we loved pianos

more than elephants, air conditioning more than air.

We loved honey, just loved it, and went into stores

to smell the sweet perfume of unworn leather shoes.

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5 Must-Read Epistle Poems

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5 Must-Read Epistle Poems

dear white america

by Danez Smith

Ars Poetica

by Horace

Epistle to a Young Friend

by Robert Burns

Before the Birth of One of Her Children

by Anne Bradstreet

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