This introductory text is a companion volume to "Language and Literature", integrating language and literary study to show how discourse analysis can contribute to an understanding of the creative use of the larger patterns of language. Making extensive use of progressive practical exercises designed to promote fully integrated literary and linguistic competence, the book draws on drama from Shakespeare to Pinter, poetry from Donne to Auden and novels from Joyce to non-canonical authors such as Flann O'Brien.