What does the term "persona" refer to?

The term "persona" refers to an external representation of oneself, often associated with the voice or perspective through which a narrative is presented. In literature, a persona can embody a character, created by the author, to convey thoughts, feelings, and experiences in the narrative. This concept is crucial as it helps readers understand the distinct viewpoints or identities that characters may adopt, differentiating between the author’s voice and that of the characters.

In poetry, for example, poets often adopt personas to express emotions or tell stories that may not directly reflect their own lives. This technique allows for a more nuanced exploration of themes and ideas, as readers engage with a crafted identity rather than a straightforward authorial perspective. Therefore, understanding persona enriches the analysis of literature by highlighting the interplay between character, voice, and narrative structure.