Epitaph

An epitaph is from Greek term “epitaphios” which means “a funeral oration.” In literature, it is a short-written tribute in poetry or prose in memory of deceased person.

Epitaph can also be defined as:

• an inscription on a gravestone in memory of the deceased.
• a poem or other short text written in memory of a deceased person.
• it is a short statement about a deceased person, often carved on his/her tombstone.

Epitaphs can be sometimes written by poets or authors themselves before dying.

Examples:

• We will never forget you.
• Beloved mother and wife
• Death is the golden key that opens the palace of Eternity.
• He lies here, somewhere.
• Always in our hearts
•  If you live life right
   death is a joke
   as far as fear is concerned

Characteristics of epitaph are the following:

• It is a short text honouring a deceased person.
• It is inscribed on a tombstone or plaque
• It may also be used in a figurative sense
• Some epitaphs are specified by the person themselves before their death.
• An epitaph may be written in prose or in poetry.
• Most epitaphs are brief records of the family, and perhaps the career of the deceased.

Epitaphs provide those who have passed with a poetic or memorable inscription for those who visit their graves to remember them by. For those who choose their own epitaphs, it is a way of sending one final and lasting message.