What does poeticism mean?
Poeticism is the quality of being poetic: the distinctive use of imagery, metaphor, rhythm, or language that gives writing and speech a more expressive, lyrical character. It can also name a broader tendency or theory that values poetic expression. The word is more common in literary criticism and cultural discussion than in ordinary conversation, where writers might simply describe something as poetic or lyrical. A work can possess poeticism without being verse, since the term can apply to prose, song, or any form of language shaped by imaginative expression. It is especially useful when discussing the effect of language rather than simply identifying a literary genre.
nounThe quality, style, or character of being poetic, especially as expressed in language, imagery, or rhythm. It may also refer to a theory or tendency that gives priority to poetic expression.
- The quality or style of being poetic, especially the use of vivid imagery, rhythm, metaphor, or elevated language.
- A tendency, theory, or mode of expression that favors poetic language or artistic treatment.
"The critic praised the novel's lyricism and poeticism without overlooking its tightly plotted narrative."
"The famous lyricism of the song gives even its most ordinary subjects a sense of poeticism."
"Her early work embraced the poeticism of the Romantic movement."
The plural is possible when referring to different poetic styles, tendencies, or approaches, although singular use is much more common.
"The authors compared the poeticisms of the two major literary movements."
The word poeticism points to the moment language stops sounding merely informative and begins to feel, sound, and move like verse.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does poeticism come from?
Poeticism is formed in English from the adjective poetic plus the suffix -ism, meaning a quality, condition, or distinctive practice. The adjective poetic comes through French from Latin poeticus, associated with Greek poētēs, meaning “poet” or “maker,” ultimately related to the Greek verb poiein, “to make.” The same roots underlie poet, poetry, and poetic, although poeticism specifically emphasizes a poetic style or tendency.
How poeticism is actually used
Poeticism is relatively uncommon and is more often used in criticism or formal discussion than in everyday speech. It can sound slightly literary or evaluative, especially when used to describe a work's style.
Easily confused with poeticism
Poetry is the literary art or body of poetic works, whereas poeticism emphasizes a poetic quality, style, or tendency.
Poetism is a rare term that can mean the character or office of a poet, while poeticism more commonly describes a poetic style or quality.