A ballad is meant to be sung. It is a type of poem that originated as a form of oral storytelling and was traditionally sung or accompanied by music. Ballads often tell a story that is passed down through generations, and their musical nature made them easier to remember and share. They typically have a simple, repetitive structure and use language that is easy to understand, making them accessible to a wide audience. While ballads can also be read or recited as poetry, their musical origins mean that they are best appreciated when heard as songs.