The word "lettrure" is a rare and outdated term that refers to literature or written works in general. Its pronunciation can be transcribed as /lɛtʁyʁ/, with the first syllable "let" sounding like the word "let", the second syllable "tr" sounding like the French "tre", and the final syllable "ure" sounding like "ooh-r". This word is not commonly used in modern French, but it can still be found in older literature and linguistic discussions.
Lettrure is a term that refers to a movement within contemporary literature that emphasizes the aesthetic qualities of language. It is a combination of the French words "lettre" (meaning letter) and "littérature" (meaning literature), which allude to the focus on the individual letters and sounds of language that are utilized to craft artistic and poetic works.
In lettrure, the written word is not merely a vessel for conveying meaning, but becomes a central element of the creative process itself. Writers who engage in lettrure often experiment with stylistic techniques such as wordplay, puns, acrostics, alliteration, and assonance to highlight the musicality and visual aspects of language. The objective is to create a multisensory experience for readers, where the form and sound of the words enhance and interact with their meaning.
Lettrure is rooted in the belief that language possesses its own inherent beauty and can evoke powerful emotions and imagination. It encourages writers to approach their craft with an attention to linguistic details, and to explore the possibilities that different combinations of letters and sounds can offer.
This literary movement finds its origins in the early 20th century with the emergence of Dada and Surrealism, which sought to challenge traditional notions of literature and artistic representation. Lettrure continues to be relevant today, as writers and poets explore new ways of engaging with language, blurring the boundaries between literature and visual art.