1. Poetry: Explores beauty, emotion, and imagination using figurative language, rhythm, and rhyme.
2. Drama: A form of literature that uses dialogue and action to tell a story, typically performed on stage.
3. Fiction: Created stories that are not true, often exploring imagined worlds and characters.
4. Nonfiction: Writing that focuses on real events and people, aiming to inform or persuade.
5. Essay: A focused piece of writing that explores a particular idea, argument, or experience.
It's important to note that these are not strict categories and some works can blur the lines. For example, a novel could contain elements of poetry, or a play could explore a historical event in a fictional way.
However, these five canons provide a framework for understanding and appreciating the vast range of literature that exists.