Gnomic describes poetry or a poetic passage that states a general truth, moral lesson, or proverb-like observation in a brief, pointed way. Gnomic verse often sounds wise, plainspoken, and memorable, using concise language to comment on human behavior or life.
It can appear as a whole poem made of maxims or as a few lines within a larger work. The key feature is its sententious, generalizing tone rather than narrative or personal detail.
Example
A shallow cup is easy to fill,
A hasty promise easier still;
The stream that learns to bend with stone
Keeps its clear voice, and travels on.