Final answer:
An elegy is a poem that mourns for the dead, lists their virtues, and seeks consolation beyond the momentary events. It expresses grief and explores the customs and private feelings of the speaker. A specific example of an elegy is 'Elegy for Wilt the Stilt' by William Heyen.
Step-by-step explanation:
An elegy is a lament for the dead and contains the character of sadness and loss. It mourns for a dead person, lists his or her virtues, and seeks consolation beyond the momentary event. To qualify as an elegy, a poem must convey grief over the deceased. It can also explore the customs and private feelings of the speaker.
For example, in the poem 'Elegy for Wilt the Stilt' by William Heyen, the poem mourns the death of Wilt the Stilt, a well-known basketball player. The poem expresses sadness and loss, while also listing the player's virtues and seeking consolation in the speaker's faith. This makes the poem qualify as an elegy.