What is a formal poem that presents a meditation on death or another solemn theme called?

The term that describes a formal poem reflecting on death or other serious themes is known as an elegy. Elegies are often characterized by their reflective and mournful tone, serving as a means for the poet to honor the deceased or to contemplate profound emotional experiences related to loss.

This form of poetry is traditionally structured and typically follows a specific pattern and rhythm, which adds to its formal quality. In contrast, a ballad is usually a narrative poem that tells a story and often has a musical quality. A sonnet is a 14-line poem with a specific rhyme scheme and often explores themes of love or beauty. An ode, while also formal, typically praises or glorifies a person, event, or thing rather than focusing specifically on themes related to death or solemnity. Thus, the elegy stands out specifically for its purpose and thematic concentration on mortality and remembrance.