What is Literature

Literature refers to a collection of written works, typically characterized by the creative intentions of the authors and the perceived excellence of their execution. It can be categorized in various ways, such as by language, national origin, historical period, genre, and subject matter.  For an in-depth look at literature within specific geographic regions, one can refer to articles on topics like African literature, Western literature, or South Asian arts. Some literatures are studied individually based on language, nation, or special subjects, such as Arabic literature, French literature, or biblical literature.  Defining literature can be somewhat circular. According to the 11th edition of Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary, literature encompasses writings with excellence of form or expression that convey ideas of lasting significance. Walter Pater, a 19th-century critic, described literature as a portrayal of imaginative or artistic content rather than simple facts. However, these definitions presuppose an understanding of literature itself. At its core, literature encompasses all written works, followed by those specific to a particular language or culture, and then individual pieces of writing.  However, these statements require some qualification. Describing literature solely as "writing" is inaccurate, as there exists oral literature and the literary traditions of preliterate societies. Literature is more than just the words on the page; it involves the skillful arrangement of language to evoke pleasure and transcends experience. Furthermore, literature serves a broader societal function by critiquing and reinforcing cultural values.
When we were asked to write "What is literature?" neglecting the above-given detail, I chose to write metaphorically. From the very start, I chose the metaphor for literature as "Drug." Here are the original lines I wrote about what literature is in the beginning: "For me, Literature is a drug. Both, the medicine and addictive alcohol. Whenever I Feel depressed I take literature as medicine as a cure but the stories and metaphor make me addicted to the literature" But during the Master's program, I found stronger arguments and evidence to prove my metaphor more accurately. I also found a second metaphor for literature, which is "Whirlpool."

Whirlpool:

The ocean hides many secrets, and everyone loves it. I do too, but my love encompasses all its aspects, both positive and negative. If I love the crashing waves, I must also love the destructive power of a tsunami. If I adore the sun-drenched shores, I am equally captivated by the mysterious depths.  The ocean's sparkling surface under the sun is as captivating as its brooding vastness under the moon. While I'm enthralled by the sight of the Titanic and SS Valencia floating upon the waves, the wreckage that lies beneath also holds a strange fascination for me.  I love the playful splash of the waves just as much as I respect the awesome power of a whirlpool.

  Perhaps this metaphor of the whirlpool is my contribution to literature. After all, literature is vast like the ocean, but for me, it possesses the mesmerizing intensity of a whirlpool.

  Just as science describes whirlpools, literature functions similarly. Whirlpools form when fast-flowing currents in oceans and rivers change direction, interacting in an unusual way. Similarly, literature creates whirlpools when elements like currents (genres), forces (themes), and opposing directions (conflicting viewpoints) collide. These elements combine to create an irresistible pull, forcing readers to surrender to the experience.

  The deeper a reader dives into literature, the more entangled they become. Just like venturing into a beautiful ocean exposes you to whirlpools, literature can present frustrating and even disturbing ideas, like those found in nihilistic, existential, or dystopian works. However, a true lover of literature embraces these challenges. They willingly surrender to the whirlpool, unafraid of the potential harm.

  Furthermore, literature, like a whirlpool, thrives on counter-arguments. Just as two opposing currents create a swirling vortex, conflicting arguments, and interpretations keep readers engaged, encouraging them to delve deeper rather than simply accept a single perspective. This whirlpool effect is what makes literature so captivating.

 Drug:

  Another metaphor I considered for literature before starting my Masters is that of a drug. Drugs can be viewed in two ways: medicine and addiction. As Twyla Tharp said, "Art is the only way to run away without leaving home." In this way, literature can be a healing balm for the soul. It grants access to experiences beyond our reach. Romantic poetry, like that of Wordsworth, can mend our mental wounds, while Albert Camus' work can offer solace from the existential anxieties explored by other philosophers. This is how literature functions as a medicine.

  However, literature can also be like a drug in a different sense. We've all experienced the addictive pull of a captivating book. Even after finishing it, we might feel a "hangover," a lingering emotional response.  This is part of the journey from reader to avid reader. We devour one good book after another, becoming progressively more invested in the world of literature. I can still recall my first book, "Twilight" by Stephenie Meyer, and the many romantic novels that followed. However, upon entering my master's program, I encountered a wider range of genres: dystopian fiction, existential literature, the absurd, the nihilistic, and most importantly, war literature. Deep immersion in these genres can be addictive, and as you delve deeper and encounter critical theories like feminism, cultural studies, Marxism, and Derrida, you are exposed to the realities of injustice, crime, and helplessness. This darker side of literature, with its potential to induce both relief and anxiety, is why I find the drug metaphor so fitting.