They concern great ideas and the histories of peoples and countries. Lyric works are more subjective and personal in origin, although they, too, may touch on universal themes. Lyric poetry is honest and direct, an emotional outpouring from the poet's heart. A lyric poem is not intended to impress you with its erudition or cleverness, so you generally won't find an elaborate construction of intellectual or poetic conceits. Rather, it appears spontaneous, very human, even conversational.
Many lyric poems are indeed quite simple, yet very moving.
Other times, the poet is more reflective, trying to make sense of an experience and applying it to a broader field of life. Almost always, you will feel the pulse of a deep river of feeling. However, in the lyric realm expect to find insights regarding these great themes, not lengthy arguments or dramatic events. You will see the term lyric or lyrical applied to music compositions, paintings, architecture, and other works of art in addition to poetry and prose. Keep your eyes and ears open and see if these works sing to you in some way.