What a great question! These two words often are used
interchangably, but they do mean different things. Confusion arises because the two
words are related in meaning. They both reflect some truth about
life.
An aphorism is a short, witty statement that usually
reflects some truth about life. "The darkest hour comes before the dawn" is literally
true. However, metaphorically speaking, it is a statement of hope. Just when it looks
like all is lost, dawn appears. There is hope, a change in direction, and light.
Aphorisms are similar to proverbs.
An epigram is a short
poem that also expresses some truth, but it might have a sarcastic or humorous tone.
Epigrams are short because originally they were engraves on tombstones. The usage has
evolved, however, to include short poetic passages that end with some kind of
twist.
Life’s saving graces are love,
pleasure, laughter ...
wisdom, it seems, is for the
Hereafter.
—
R.
Burch
Shakespeare,
Alexander Pope, and John Donne were masters of the
epigram.
Blessed is he who expects nothing, for he shall
never be disappointed. (Alexander
Pope)
As you travel the
Internet, be careful. Many sites confuse aphorisms and epigrams.
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