What is the term for a harmonious succession of sounds used in poetry and prose?

Euphony is the term that refers to a harmonious succession of sounds used in poetry and prose. It is characterized by the pleasant and smooth arrangement of words that create a melodious effect when spoken or read. This quality is often achieved through the use of soft consonants and smoother vowel sounds, which together produce a soothing auditory experience. Euphony is particularly important in poetry, where the sound of words can enhance meaning, mood, and the overall impact of the work.

Cacophony, on the other hand, refers to a harsh or discordant mixture of sounds, and alliteration deals specifically with the repetition of initial consonant sounds in closely positioned words, rather than the overall harmony of sound in a piece of writing. While rhyme involves the correspondence of sounds at the ends of words, it does not encompass the broader, more harmonious quality that euphony conveys. Thus, euphony is the most accurate term for describing a pleasing sequence of sounds in literature.