An eclogue is a short pastoral poem, usually set in an idealized rural world and often written as a dialogue between shepherds or other country figures. The form traditionally treats love, nature, work, or loss through a simple pastoral setting, though later poets sometimes used it for broader themes such as politics or religion.
Originally written by Virgil who was imitating the idylls of Theocritus. Eclogues may also express religious or ethical themes. A modern example of the form is Eclogue from Iceland by Louis MacNeice. The eclogue is sometimes known as the bucolic.
Example
"The river's low tonight," said Will.
"Then let it carry our laments," said Nell.
"We have no riches," Will replied,
"but grass, and stars, and time to tell."
Related Definitions
[n] a short descriptive poem of rural or pastoral life