What is a key characteristic of poetry?

A key characteristic of poetry is its use of figures of speech and imagery. Poetry often employs metaphors, similes, personification, and other figurative language to express emotions and ideas in evocative ways. This emphasis on imagery allows poets to create vivid mental pictures and a deeper emotional resonance in their work.

Unlike expository text, which aims to inform or explain clearly and directly, poetry often prioritizes aesthetic qualities and emotional impact over straightforwardness. The poetic form can also incorporate rhythm and meter, which contributes to its musicality. While some poetry may include narrative elements, it is not primarily defined by a narrative structure as one might find in prose.Thus, the utilization of figures of speech and imagery is essential in distinguishing poetry and enriching its meaning.