What is an epigram?

An epigram is defined as a brief, clever, and memorable statement or poem, often presented in a concise format. It typically consists of just one or two lines and is known for its wit and ingenuity. Epigrams frequently capture a thought or observation in a striking way, making them both engaging and impactful. This distinctive quality of brevity and cleverness makes option A the correct choice.

The other options describe forms of poetry or types of literary works that do not align with the characteristics of an epigram. A long narrative poem, for example, would typically recount a story and would lack the conciseness that defines an epigram. Free verse poetry is characterized by its lack of a consistent meter or rhyme scheme, which is also different from the structured brevity of an epigram. Lastly, a poem that depicts historical events usually involves detailed storytelling or description, diverging from the sharp focus and brevity inherent in an epigrammatic form. Thus, option A stands out as the accurate definition of what an epigram entails.