What Is a Literary Text? Characteristics and Examples

A literary text is a work that uses language expressively. It may tell a story, develop a poetic image or construct a scene through dialogue.

Main characteristics

Voice, rhythm, point of view, imagery and structure all contribute to meaning. Not every literary text uses the same techniques or combines them in the same way.

Types of literary text

Narrative presents events and characters, poetry may work through rhythm and imagery, and drama develops through characters, dialogue and action.

An original narrative example

When she returned, the door was open and a letter lay inside that nobody remembered writing.

An original poetic example

Morning carried a small sun in its pocket.

If you are preparing a work for publication, organise its preliminary pages, chapters and final matter before the layout and production stages.

How does it differ from informational writing?

Informational writing generally prioritises the accurate communication of facts. Literary writing can use ambiguity, figurative language and expressive devices for aesthetic or emotional purposes.

How to write a literary text

1. Choose the subject.
2. Decide who is speaking.
3. Build the scenes or poetic situation.
4. Review the imagery and rhythm.
5. Edit and proofread the text before publication.

Frequently asked questions

Does it have to rhyme?

No. Rhyme is only one possible device.

Must it be fictional?

Not necessarily. Literary treatment can be applied to real experiences.

If the work is ready for production, see our book printing service.

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