JPF Home Page Forums General Messages Songwriter Message Forum Why are there so many lyric-only folks?

A lyric is a poem that is written to be sung to a melody. Since it is meant to be sung to a melody, the line length and meter have to be consistent so that it can fit the melody. The stresses of the syllables have to fit the melody. The words a lyricist chooses must also be appropriate for the mechanics of singing.

Although lyrics can be verses only, a lyric is often written with other parts of the song in mind, Intro, refrain/chorus or repeated line, bridge and outro. .


As Everett mentioned, a poem does not have to have the consistency that is required of a lyric. Even when it is rhymed and metered, the meter can be variable and the line length as well. Poetry can have repeated lines too. Because a poem is meant to be recited rather than sung, there is more freedom in word choice.

If a poem is strictly metered, and the word choice is appropriate for singing, music can be set to it. Likewise, some lyrics read very well as a poem, even with a refrain or chorus.

The word lyric is derived from from latin and greek words that refer to a lyre.
The lyrical poetry of antiquity was recited or chanted while a lyre was strummed or plucked.

One thing I know for sure, if I were a guitar, I would hate it if someone made a lyre out of me. (Sorry, couldn't help it.)