What type of poetry is specifically written in memory and lamentation of the deceased?

The type of poetry that is specifically written in memory and lamentation of the deceased is an elegy. An elegy traditionally reflects on loss, mourning, and the impact of death on those left behind. This poetic form serves as a tribute to the deceased, allowing the poet to express sorrow and honor the memory of a loved one. Elegies often explore themes of grief, remembrance, and the inevitability of death, following a structure that can vary but usually conveys deep emotional resonance.

In contrast, haiku is a form of Japanese poetry that often focuses on nature and captures a moment, while a lyric poem expresses personal thoughts and feelings, typically in a more general context rather than specifically mourning a death. Blank verse, which is unrhymed iambic pentameter, does not adhere to a thematic focus on death or loss, making it distinct from elegy. Understanding these differences helps to clarify why elegy is the correct choice when considering poetry centered around memory and lamentation.