When I was in school, my medium of instruction was entirely Gujarati, but from the very first standard, English had always been one of my favorite subjects. I was fascinated by the language and eager to learn it. I enjoyed solving spelling puzzles and participating in various activities related to the English language. In school, I was particularly good at English grammar, and for me, literature only meant the textual content in my school syllabus. My understanding of literature was limited to prose, poetry, and grammar exercises, and I had no idea about the vast world of literary studies beyond that. However, my perception of literature began to change when I pursued a Bachelor of Arts in English.
During my undergraduate studies, I was introduced to novels, plays, and dramas written by some of the most celebrated authors in English literature. I came to know about different branches of literature, such as American, African, and Indian literature. Reading works by authors like Shakespeare, Toni Morrison, and R.K. Narayan made me realize that literature is not just about language but also about history, culture, and human emotions. I began to see literature as a powerful medium that reflects society and its complexities. It was during this time that I developed a deep appreciation for storytelling and how it shapes our understanding of the world. As I delved into various literary movements and genres, I started recognizing the impact of literature on social structures and personal identity.
When I entered my Master’s program, my perspective on literature evolved even further. I was introduced to literary theories that reshaped my way of thinking. Structuralism, poststructuralism, existentialism, and feminism opened new dimensions of interpretation for me. I learned how literature is not just about stories but also about the power structures, ideologies, and perspectives that influence our understanding of texts. My engagement with feminist criticism, for instance, made me more aware of gender biases in literature and society. As Virginia Woolf once said, "Lock up your libraries if you like; but there is no gate, no lock, no bolt that you can set upon the freedom of my mind." This quote resonated deeply with me as I realized that literature has the ability to liberate the mind and challenge existing norms.
Now, as a postgraduate student, literature has become an inseparable part of my life. It has shaped my ability to think critically, question established narratives, and develop a broader perspective on social and cultural issues. My journey from viewing literature as mere textual content to understanding its deep philosophical and ideological significance has been transformative. Literature has not only refined my language skills but also molded my personality and worldview. It has taught me that stories are not just words on a page but reflections of human existence, struggles, and aspirations.