This document provides an overview of Philippine literature, including definitions and classifications. It defines literature as an art form that presents life through words rather than directly telling readers about life. Literature is studied to develop critical thinking, mental maturity, and an appreciation for beauty. The document classifies literature as either fiction, which involves unreal situations, or non-fiction, including narrative forms like autobiographies, memoirs, and biographies, as well as informative genres like expository essays and persuasive essays. It also distinguishes between prose, which uses paragraphs and ordinary language, and poetry, which uses stanzas, metaphor, and ornamental vocabulary. Examples of different types of prose and poetry are also listed.