In literary terms, what is the "speaker" in a poem or story?

The speaker in a poem or story refers to the narrator or the voice that conveys the thoughts and emotions of the text. This term encompasses the perspective through which the narrative unfolds, providing insight into the themes and emotions present in the work. In poetry, the speaker is not necessarily the poet; instead, it is a crafted voice that can represent various viewpoints and experiences. Understanding that the speaker acts as a conduit for the reader's experience of the poem or story is essential to analyzing its meaning and impact.

While the main character may be central to the plot, they do not encompass the broader narrative voice. The audience refers to those who are reading or listening to the poem or story, while a critic evaluates and analyzes literary works, but neither of these roles fulfills the function of the speaker within the text itself. Thus, identifying the speaker as the narrator or voice of the text allows for a deeper appreciation of how the narrative is shaped and conveyed.