Literary Genres and Language: Prose, Verse, and Dramatic Expression

Classification of Literary Expression

Prose and Verse

Literary expression is classified through prose and verse. Prose uses natural language to express concepts, while verse is the artistic expression of language that meets aesthetic needs. Its rhythm is marked by pauses, creating a measured flow.

Literary Genres

Literary genres are the fundamental models for structuring literary texts. Each genre can present diverse works, and realizations of the same genre can reflect the characteristics of a particular age.

Lyrical Genre

Lyrical texts present a subjective view from an intimate perspective. Experiences and feelings prevail, emphasizing the expressive and poetic functions of language. The most common vehicle of expression is the lyric verse.

Subgenres of Lyric

• Elegy: Expresses grief over the loss of a loved one.
• Eclogue: Expresses feelings of love and exalts nature.
• Ode: Develops feelings and thoughts in an elevated tone.
• Song: Usually expresses emotions of love.
• Satire: Presents defects and social issues humorously.

Narrative Genre

In narrative, the narrator tells events that happen to characters, emphasizing the representational function. The narrator may adopt an internal or external perspective of the action. The predominant mode is narrative text combined with description.

Subgenres of Narrative

• Novel: A long fictional narrative with varied themes.
• Short Story: A short fictional narrative, often with didactic aims.
• Epistle: A personal narrative in letter form.
• Fable: A short story with a moral and didactic purpose.

Literary Language

Authors of literary texts use creative freedom for aesthetic purposes. Characteristic features include:

• Linguistic Registers: A formal register is often combined with informal and colloquial language.
• Subjective Lexicon: Employs words charged with connotative and evaluative nuances.
• Figures of Speech: Utilize literary devices to enhance meaning and create artistic effects.
• Verb Forms: The use of person and tense are particularly important.
• Adjectives: Predominance of adjectives, both specific and explanatory.
• Recurrence: Repetition of linguistic elements for emphasis.
• Theatrical Stage Directions and Asides: Stage directions provide information on staging, and asides reflect the characters' thoughts.