Dvanyaloka

Anandavardhana's Dvanyāloka is a seminal treatise in Sanskrit poetics that formulates the dhvani (suggestion) theory, arguing that the primary aesthetic effect of poetry arises from implied meanings beyond literal sense.

The work systematically analyzes poetic devices and the role of rasa (aesthetic flavor) in evoking responses in the reader or audience.

It influenced later commentators, notably Abhinavagupta, who wrote important commentaries expanding and integrating these ideas.

Dvanyāloka established key concepts in classical Indian literary criticism and remains central to studies of Sanskrit literature and aesthetics.

Sanderson cites it as his early inspiration for pursuing Sanskrit scholarship.