Stuck on a Crossword Clue? Solve the Mystery of the Long Poem Section!

Sure! As an expert in the field of literature and poetry, I would be happy to explain the answer ‘CANTO’ to you. In the context of a crossword clue, a “section of a long poem” refers to a specific division or part within an epic or narrative poem.

A ‘CANTO’ is essentially a major division or chapter within a long poem. It is derived from the Italian word “canto,” which means song or singing. Cantos are commonly found in epic poems and help to structure the narrative and provide a sense of progression throughout the work.

When a poet writes a long poem, they often break it down into smaller, manageable parts called cantos. Each canto usually consists of a self-contained portion of the overall poem, with its own themes, structure, and sometimes even its own poetic form.

Cantos are typically numbered or titled to help the reader navigate through the poem. This numbering system allows readers to refer to specific sections and facilitates discussions or analysis of the poem’s themes, characters, and symbols.

One of the most famous examples of a long poem organized into cantos is Dante Alighieri’s “Divine Comedy.” The poem is divided into three major sections, each consisting of multiple cantos: Inferno (Hell), Purgatorio (Purgatory), and Paradiso (Paradise). Each canto within these sections depicts particular encounters, experiences, or lessons for the protagonist, Dante.

So, in summary, a canto is a significant part or chapter of a long poem that helps structure the narrative and serves as a unit for analysis and discussion. It is a crucial device used by poets to provide organization and coherence to their work.