Ecphractic

/ɛkˈfræktɪk/ adjective

Definition

Relating to or describing a detailed, vivid description that seems to bring a scene to life before the reader's eyes.

Etymology

From Greek 'ekphrasis' (detailed description) with the suffix '-ic' meaning 'relating to' or 'of the nature of.' The term comes from 'ek-' (out) and 'phrasis' (speech or telling), literally 'speaking out in detail.'

Kelly Says

An 'ecphractic' poem about a painting doesn't just describe what you see—it makes you *see* it! Greek poets did this brilliantly: they'd describe a shield or a work of art so vividly that the reader felt like they were standing in front of it. Modern Instagram captions try to do this but rarely succeed!

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