To what extent do the principles of a theory of spontaneous face-to-face communication carry over to the interpretation of carefully crafted literary texts (novels, plays, poems)? That is the central question addressed by this book. The literary studies presented here are deeply informed by Relevance Theory's cognitive-inferential account of communication while remaining acutely alert to the sensorimotor, kinesic, affective and other non-propositional effects that a work of literature may have on a receptive reader. This engaging set of essays is for students of literature, communication theorists, and anyone who has ever marvelled at the rich experience of reading fiction. Robyn Carston, University College London sakriti opis