* Have a regular rhythm and rhyme scheme: This is the most defining characteristic of verse. It uses structured patterns of sound and meter to create a musical effect. Prose, on the other hand, is written in regular sentences without any strict rhythm or rhyme.
* Use figurative language more extensively: Poetry often relies heavily on metaphors, similes, personification, and other figures of speech to create imagery and evoke emotions. While prose can also use figurative language, it does so less frequently and often for a different purpose.
* Be more condensed and symbolic: Verse can pack a lot of meaning into a few words, often using symbolism and allusions to convey complex ideas. Prose tends to be more direct and literal in its language.
* Be more focused on sound and rhythm: Poetry pays close attention to the sound of words and how they flow together. This includes elements like alliteration, assonance, and consonance. Prose primarily focuses on conveying meaning clearly and directly.
* Be structured in stanzas: Verse is often divided into stanzas, which are groups of lines that form a unit of meaning. Prose is typically written in paragraphs.
While these are some of the key differences, it's important to remember that the lines between verse and prose are not always clear. There are many forms of poetry that break the traditional rules of verse, and some prose works can be quite lyrical and rhythmic.