Literature transforms and intensifies ordinary language, deviates systematically from everyday speech. If you approach me at a bus stop and murmur 'Thou still unravished bride of quietness,' then I am instantly aware that I am in the presence of the literary.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Literary language differs systematically from everyday speech, allowing us to recognize artistic presence.
- In plain terms
- When speech follows poetic rules, it feels like literature.
- What can you take from it?
- Literary speech stands apart from casual talk.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What makes speech literary?
- How do we notice art?
Another view
Not all deviations from speech are recognized as literary.
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