1. A Poem for Imitation: This is the most common meaning. A model poem is a poem presented as an example to be studied and imitated. It might be used in a classroom setting or for personal study. The purpose is to help the student learn about poetic form, language, and techniques.
* Example: In a class studying sonnets, the teacher might present Shakespeare's "Sonnet 18" as a model poem for the students to analyze and then try to emulate.
2. A Perfect Poem: This is a more abstract idea. It refers to a poem that is considered to be the ideal example of a particular genre or style. It is a "model" in the sense that it embodies all the desired qualities.
* Example: Some might consider Homer's *The Odyssey* to be a model epic poem, demonstrating the key elements of the genre.
3. A Poem Used in a Specific Context: Sometimes, a poem can be called a "model" because it is designed for a particular purpose. For example:
* A model poem for a competition: A poem written to show the judges the style and themes the poet wants to pursue.
* A model poem for a specific audience: A poem written to be accessible to a particular age group or with a particular understanding of language.
Important Considerations:
* Subjectivity: What constitutes a "good" or "model" poem is often subjective. Different people will have different preferences.
* Context: The meaning of "model" can be very context-dependent. It's important to consider the situation when interpreting the term.
So, to understand what a "model poem" is, you need to consider the specific context in which it's being used.