There are distinct similarities between Lamentations 2:1–22 and Lamentations 4:1–22. The same description of the downfall of Jerusalem is found in both. Both songs highlight the blame of the religious leaders for the disaster. Both also elaborate on the suffering of children. It seems that both songs were apparently written by an eyewitness as the descriptions in both are very concrete and vivid.1 The description of the attitude of the prophets, priests and people after the catastrophe confirms this (see Lamentations 4:14–15). It moves the reader in time to immediately after Jerusalem's destruction. Also, as far as the form is concerned, the artful composition of Lamentations 1 is lacking in Lamentations 2:1–22 and Lamentations 4:1–22.2
Although there are these similarities, there are also some differences that distinguish Lamentations 4:1–22 from Lamentations 2:1–22. The fate of the several classes of the leaders is observed in more detail in Lamentations 4:1–22. Also in Lamentations 4:1–22, their circumstances are set forth explicitly as a deserved punishment by God for the sins of the people.3
1 Eh quoi! l'or a perdu son éclat! L'or pur est altéré! Les pierres du sanctuaire sont dispersées Aux coins de toutes les rues!