Lost literary genres in the service of biblio/poetry therapy

Abstract

Although literary genres considerably influence the reader’s interpretation and the writer’s expression, their significance is often overlooked in biblio/poetry therapy research. This article examines the role of literary genres in biblio/poetry therapy, highlighting their potential to enrich therapeutic practice. Drawing on literary history, the article explores lost literary genres, such as palinode, medieval medical almanac, and idyll, for their therapeutic possibilities. Through practical implementation in developmental groups (2023–2024), these genres demonstrated potential in fostering emotional regulation and creativity, promoting participants’ mental health and well-being. This study advocates for innovative approaches to enhance self-expression and interaction in biblio/poetry therapy by integrating genre-focused and literary-historical perspectives.