Literary

Literary describes writing that belongs to literature or has the qualities associated with serious written art, especially careful language, deliberate structure, and attention to style. In poetry, the word often points to a poem's connection with books, literary tradition, or learned allusion rather than casual speech.

Example

Her poem used a literary voice, echoing ancient myths and quoting the rhythm of old sonnets rather than everyday conversation.

Related Definitions

[adj] appropriate to literature rather than everyday speech or writing; "when trying to impress someone she spoke in an affected literary style"
[adj] knowledgeable about literature; "a literary style"
[adj] of or relating to or dealing with good literature; "literary criticism"

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Book: Diverse Voices: The Poetry of Human Rights and the Pursuit of Peace