What distinguishes poetry from prose?

Poetry is distinguished from prose primarily through its use of figurative language, which includes devices such as metaphor, simile, personification, and symbolism. This figurative language allows poetry to convey deeper emotional truths and create rich imagery, often encouraging readers to interpret meaning in multiple layers. While prose tends to prioritize straightforward communication and narrative clarity, poetry emphasizes aesthetic qualities and the resonance of language, inviting readers to explore and reflect on its meaning more tangentially. The incorporation of imagery and emotion is central in poetry, making it a unique form of expression compared to prose, which may not prioritize such devices to the same degree.