Here's a breakdown of key characteristics:
* Ordinary Language: Prose uses the everyday language we speak, unlike poetry which often employs figurative language and rhythmic structures.
* Lack of Rhythmic Patterns: Unlike poetry, prose does not follow a specific meter or rhyme scheme. It aims for natural flow and clarity of expression.
* Focus on Information or Storytelling: Prose serves primarily to communicate information, tell a story, or explore a topic in a factual or fictional manner.
* Sentence Structure and Paragraphs: Prose writing uses sentences and paragraphs to organize thoughts and ideas logically.
* Varied Sentence Length: Prose often employs a mix of short and long sentences to create rhythm and maintain reader interest.
* Descriptive Language: Prose can use descriptive language to paint vivid pictures and evoke emotions, but it avoids the highly stylized language often found in poetry.
Examples of Prose Writing:
* Novels
* Short stories
* Essays
* Articles
* News reports
* Letters
* Blog posts
In contrast to poetry, prose is more grounded in reality and aims for clarity and directness in its communication.