X.—The Most Fundamental Differentia of Poetry and Prose

Abstract

It is my purpose in this paper to consider the relations of the two great types of literary expression, poetry and prose, and, if possible, to determine the most vital, fundamental, and essential trait which discriminates one type from the other, more particularly in the primitive stages of their development.In this investigation certain postulates regarding the nature of literature and of art will be of service in clearing the ground. I shall make four such assumptions, as follows:First, the difference between these two literary types is a fundamental, not a superficial difference. In the words of Professor Earle, “the distinction between poetry and prose is one which is seated in the nature of things…. it is a profound and essential organic distinction.”