runolliset

Runolliset is a Finnish adjective meaning "poetic" or "poetical." In literary analysis, the term describes language or style that resembles poetry, characterized by heightened imagery, metaphor, rhythm, and sound patterns rather than straightforward prose. Runollinen language can appear in both verse and prose, where it signals a deliberately artistic, lyrical quality.

Etymology and form: The base form is runollinen; the plural nominative is runolliset. The noun form runollisuus denotes the "poetic quality." The word is built from runo (poem) with the suffix -llinen, which conveys "having the nature of." It is a standard term in Finnish literary criticism.

Typical features include condensed imagery, figurative language, metaphor, personification, alliteration, assonance, and a musical or cadence-like rhythm. Syntax may be deliberately compact or flexible to heighten sound and pace. While the term is closely associated with lyric poetry, runollinen style can also appear in prose, speeches, or translations where the aim is an aesthetic effect.

Usage and scope: In Finnish studies, runollinen is used as a stylistic descriptor rather than a rigid genre label. Writers may blend runollinen elements with narrative or essayistic forms, producing texts that read as artful and emotionally charged as well as informative.

See also: Runous, Runo, Proosa, Runollinen kieli.