What is the term for language that creates special effects or feelings and should not be taken literally?

The term that refers to language designed to evoke special effects or feelings, and which should not be interpreted literally, is figurative language. This style of language includes various rhetorical devices such as metaphors, similes, hyperbole, and personification, all of which enrich writing by adding layers of meaning and emotional resonance. For example, saying "the world is my oyster" employs a metaphor that suggests opportunity rather than making a literal statement about the world or oysters. Figurative language is essential in poetry and literature as it allows writers to express complex ideas and emotions in a more impactful way.

In contrast, literal language provides explicit, straightforward meaning without embellishment, making it unsuitable for creating special effects or deeper emotional responses. Poetic language may encompass figurative language, but it is often more specific to poetry and not as broad as the concept of figurative language itself. Descriptive language focuses on providing detailed imagery and sensory experiences but does not inherently specify non-literal meanings. Thus, figurative language is the most accurate term in this context.