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What is the difference between a concrete poem and calligram?

Concrete poetry and calligrams are both types of visual poetry that use the visual arrangement of words to create meaning or imagery. However, there are some key differences between the two forms.

* Concrete poems are typically composed of individual words or phrases that are arranged in a way that creates a visual image or pattern. The words themselves may not have any literal meaning, but their placement and arrangement create a visual experience for the reader. For example, a concrete poem might use the shape of a heart to create a visual representation of love, or it might use the arrangement of words to create a sense of movement.

* Calligrams are a type of visual poetry that uses the shape and arrangement of words to create a visual representation of the poem's subject. The words themselves are often literal and meaningful, and the way they are arranged helps to create the poem's overall meaning. For example, a calligram might use the shape of a bird to create a visual representation of a poem about flight, or it might use the arrangement of words to create a sense of rhythm or movement.

Here are some examples of concrete poems and calligrams:

Concrete poems:

* Guillaume Apollinaire's "Il pleut" (1918)

* E. E. Cummings' "l(a" (1925)

* John Cage's "4'33"" (1952)

Calligrams:

* George Herbert's "Easter Wings" (1633)

* Guillaume Apollinaire's "Le pont Mirabeau" (1913)

* Richard Wilbur's "The House" (1956)

Concrete poetry and calligrams are both creative and experimental forms of poetry that offer a unique way for poets to express themselves. By using the visual arrangement of words to create meaning and imagery, these forms of poetry engage the reader in a multisensory experience.

Poetry

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