What narrative poem is intended to be sung and usually has a refrain?

A ballad is a form of narrative poetry that is particularly designed to be sung. Characteristically, ballads tell a story, often about love, tragedy, or adventure, and they commonly feature a refrain, which is a repeated phrase or line that adds rhythm and emotional resonance. This musical quality, along with the narrative structure, distinguishes ballads from other types of poetry.

In contrast, an ode typically focuses on the speaker's emotions and reflections about a particular subject, such as nature or a person, rather than narrating a story. A lyric poem expresses personal feelings and thoughts, often in a more introspective or abstract way, without adhering to a narrative or storytelling format. An epic poem, on the other hand, is a lengthy narrative that details significant events, often involving heroic deeds and adventures, but it is not necessarily intended to be sung or structured with a refrain. This helps clarify why a ballad is the correct choice.