An ode is a type of poem that is generally written to address and praise a subject. It is a formal, often ceremonious lyric poem that celebrates a person, place, thing, or idea. Odes are elaborately structured poems that can be used to express emotions using rich, descriptive language. The Greek odes were originally poetic pieces performed with musical accompaniment, and they gradually became known as personal lyrical compositions whether sung or merely recited. There are different types of odes, including the Pindaric ode, the Horatian ode, and the Sapphic ode. The themes of odes are inspiring and lofty, and they have universal appeal.