An epigram is a short poem with a clever twist at the end or a concise and witty statement. They are among the best examples of the power of poetry to compress insight and wit.The epigram originated in Greece as a form for inscription on a monument or grave, hence the word ‘epigram’ from the Greek words meaning ‘to write on’. Epigrams were thus much shorter than lyric poetry which developed from forms designed for performance accompanied by musical instruments

           for example :
            Here lies my wife: here let her lie! Now she’s at rest — and so am I. — John Dryden

 Occasionally, simple and witty statements, though not poetical per se, may also be considered epigrams, such as one attributed to Oscar Wilde: “I can resist everything except temptation.”