In order to understand and discuss literature, we need to have common definitions for the basic elements of literature and the devices that authors use to enhance their writing.

This page features resources around both literary elements and literary devices, which you can use to help you interpret the short stories, poems, and movies elsewhere on the site.

Literary elements are the fundamental building blocks that are present in all literary writing. They play an important role in helping us write, read, and understand literature.

Writers often use various literary devices to express their ideas and enhance their writing. When used properly, the different literary devices help readers to appreciate, interpret, and analyze a literary work.