Ode

a lyric poem characterized by exalted emotion, dignity of style, and an irregular form. The word ode is from the Greek and, in its original use, meant simply a song. In its more modern meaning, an ode, while classed with lyric poetry, is seldom sung or written to be sung. Its varied rhythm is, however, designed to express that fervor of emotion which would naturally find utterance in spontaneous song. Among the most notable odes in literature are Dryden's Ode for St. Cecilia's Day, Shelley's Ode to a Skylark, and Lowell's Commemoration Ode.