The term POETIC LAMENT is composed of two crossword solutions: ELEGY (5 letters) and ALAS (4 letters). An ELEGY is a poem or song expressing sorrow or lamentation, often for the dead. It is a form of poetry that has been used since ancient times to express grief and mourning. ALAS is an interjection used to express sorrow, regret, or grief. Together, these two words form the phrase POETIC LAMENT, which is used to describe a poem or song that expresses sorrow or grief in a poetic way.