ballads

[15goddess15]

how can you immediatly recognize a ballad???? any particular obvious feature?
thanks x

[fairkatrina]

A ballad is a song that tells a story and was originally accompanied by music and dance. There are several common features:
1. The beginning is very abrupt
2. The language is simple
3. The story is told through dialogue and action
4. The theme is often tragic
5. There is often a refrain or chorus
Secondary common features include:
1. The ballad detailing a single event
2. Lack of surrounding description
3. Events relayed swiftly
4. Strong dramatic element
5. Impersonal narrator

[heathfield]

And it's in 'four lines per verse' form. Disagree about the impersonal narrator though. A ballad is very often the story-teller's own tragic tale.