Literature, in its broadest sense, is any written work; etymologically the term derives

from Latin literatura/litteratura "writing formed with letters", although some definitions
include spoken or sung texts. More restrictively, it is writing that possesses literary merit, and
language that foregrounds literariness, as opposed to ordinary language.
Goals
Literature is
Composition that tells a story, dramatizes a situation,
expresses emotions, analyzes and advocates ideas
Helps us grow personally and intellectually
Provides an objective base for knowledge and
understanding
Shapes our goals and values by clarifying our own
identities, both positively and negatively
Literature makes us human.
Genres
Four genres of literature:
Prose fiction
Myths, parables, romances, novels, short stories
Poetry
Open form and closed form
Relies on imagery, figurative language, sound
Drama
Made up of dialogue and set direction
Designed to be performed
Nonfiction prose
News reports, feature articles, essays, editorials,
textbooks, historical and biographical Works
POETRY
Poetry is language written with rhythm, figurative language, imagery, sound devices and
emotionally charged language.
- Lyric Poem: Lyric poem is a highly musical verse that expresses the observation and
feelings of a single speaker.
- Narrative Poem: Narrative Poem is a story told in verse. Narrative poems often have all
the elements of short stories, including characters, conflict, and plot.
- Concrete Poem: Concrete Poem is one with a shape that suggests its subject. The poet
arranges the letters, punctuation, and lines to create an image or picture, on the page.