Literature as a Lighthouse: My Personal Metaphor

A lighthouse does not calm the sea or stop the storm, but it provides light to those lost in the dark. Literature has done the same for me. It has not solved all my problems, but it has helped me understand the world, guiding me through confusion, doubts, and difficult times.

Just like a lighthouse warns sailors about hidden dangers, literature has revealed the unseen truths of society. When I read The White Tiger by Aravind Adiga, I saw how power and corruption shape people’s lives. It made me question the systems around me, just as a lighthouse helps sailors see what lies beneath the surface. Similarly, The Ministry of Utmost Happiness by Arundhati Roy showed me the pain of those pushed to the margins of society. It reminded me that even in darkness, people search for love, identity, and purpose—just like lost ships looking for a guiding light.

A lighthouse does not tell sailors where to go—it only shows them that a path exists. Literature has done the same for me. It has shaped the way I think, helped me see beyond my own experiences, and given me light in moments of uncertainty. I may not always know my destination, but with literature as my lighthouse, I know I will never be completely lost.

A lighthouse does not erase the darkness, nor does it change the course of the sea. It simply stands tall, unwavering, offering light to those who seek it. That is what literature has been for me—a steady, guiding presence through the storms of life. It has not given me certainty, but it has given me clarity. It has not handed me a destination, but it has assured me that there is always a way forward.