What is Literature?

During my undergraduate studies, I possessed a superficial understanding of literature and attempted to define it as follows, any written piece of paper could be included in literature. The definition of literature is vast, encompassing innumerable subjects, thus articles, journals, and newspapers can also be considered as literature. However, we particularly regard literary texts such as novels, dramas, poems, and essays as literature. R. J. Rees provided insight into the nature of literature in his work, "Why Do We Study Literature?" Additionally, Dr. Johnson, in his preface to Shakespeare, stated that the works of Shakespeare are a "Mirror of Life."

Literature, in its traditional sense, encompasses a wide range of written works, including novels, dramas, prose, and poetry. Initially, stories were passed down through oral traditions, ensuring their preservation for future generations. However, the invention of printing technology in Europe during the 15th century revolutionized the dissemination of knowledge, paving the way for the Enlightenment. From that point onward, literature evolved through the modern and postmodern periods, and today, we find ourselves in a technologically driven, "flat" world. In this new era, literature has acquired novel forms, with machines now capable of generating poetry and stories using AI technology. It was amidst this transformation that I first became familiar with literature.

Interestingly, I was not familiar with the term "literature" until I enrolled in a B.A. program. Even during my bachelor’s studies, I wasn’t particularly inclined toward literature and perceived it as merely stories about kings and queens. However, in the last semester of my degree, I found myself drawn to English literature and books. This fascination deepened during my master’s studies, especially after being introduced to cultural studies, critical theories, and absurd and existential philosophy.

Literature is often regarded as a way of understanding and living life. It exerts a gradual yet profound impact on individuals. In my case, studying and engaging with critical theories and philosophy has played a crucial role in shaping my worldview and understanding of how human society functions. I personally believe that studying and reading literary texts makes one more mature than those who do not engage with such works. At the same time, reading literature and watching quality films fosters empathy and kindness toward fellow human beings. It allows one to understand people and their ways of thinking. I think one of the most paramount values that literature teaches us is to be kind and helpful to everyone.

Moreover, literature serves as a guide, helping us avoid wrong decisions by offering a moral compass through the actions of its characters. From the virtuous paths of noble characters, we learn how to navigate the boat of our own lives, while flawed characters like Macbeth warn us against the perils of unchecked ambition and greed. Similarly, figures like Victor Frankenstein and Dr. Jekyll caution us against indulging in reckless scientific pursuits without considering their consequences. Jay Gatsby vividly illustrates the dangers of clinging to the past, teaching us to embrace the present rather than be consumed by unattainable dreams.

I have always been particularly fascinated by politics, authority, and the construct of human behavior. During my study of cultural studies and literary theories, I had the opportunity to explore the writings of Michel Foucault, Louis Althusser, Frederic Jameson, Frantz Fanon, and Jacques Derrida. Their views and philosophies on the world, the individual, and society changed my perspective, allowing me to see things in a different light. It has often been said that literature and politics go hand in hand. The connection between literature and politics is deeply rooted in history, where writers, poets, and playwrights have used their works as tools to challenge authority, inspire revolutions, or critique social and political systems. Anti-colonial and feminist literature are prime examples of this, along with works written against the dangers of totalitarianism by writers like George Orwell. The influence of European literature also led to the establishment of the Indian Renaissance and nationalist movements. These instances demonstrate that literature is a uniquely powerful medium capable of sparking the force of liberation within an individual's mind. Sadly, however, we have also witnessed the manipulation of literature by those in power, giving rise to propagandist literature. To read and understand literature is to develop a historical sense, and to view contemporary happenings through the lens of literature is an essential practice.

For me, literature is a complex entity that cannot be confined to a single definition. It is a liberating force that penetrates deeply into the mind, forever changing the individual and often leading them into isolation or solitude. This is my perspective on literature after completing my Master’s in English Language and Literature.