How to quote poetry or literary works in the MLA style?

To properly cite poetry or literary works in MLA style, parenthetical references should specify line numbers rather than page numbers. Block formatting is required for verse quotations exceeding three lines. Essential principles include using the author’s surname and the cited line number(s) in parentheses. For plays, list act, scene, and line numbers (e.g., 3.2.15-17). Enclose short verse quotations (three lines or fewer) within the text, indicating line breaks with slashes. Block quotes for longer extracts must be indented 0.5 inches without quotation marks, preserving original stanza structure. Always note original line numbering as presented in your source edition. Begin by briefly introducing the quote with a signal phrase. Integrate short quotes smoothly, adding parenthetical citation after closing punctuation. For block quotes, end the introductory clause with a colon before starting the indented passage. Key application steps are: locating the correct line numbers from the source edition used; formatting accurately using slashes for run-in quotes or indentation for block quotes; and providing the precise parenthetical reference. Consistently verify the edition's lineation.