For descriptions of these forms, see the table Terms used in poetry. Narrative poetry Narrative poetry tells stories. Epics are long poems. Most epics describe the deeds of heroes in battle or conflicts between human beings and natural and divine forces. Many other epics tell of the origin or history of a people.
Epics are probably the oldest surviving form of poetry.
Dramatic poetry, like narrative poetry, tells stories. But in dramatic poetry, the poet lets one or more of the story's characters act out the story. Many plays are written as dramatic poetry. The difference between drama and dramatic poetry is a matter of degree. If the dialogue of a play rhymes, has repeating rhythms, or features other distinct poetic elements, the play is considered to be dramatic poetry.