What is Literature?

Defining literature has perpetually posed a challenge, owing to its nuanced nature that invites novel perspectives upon contemplation and reexamination. The term "literature" traces its origins to Latin, signifying "the use of letters" or "writing." As it permeated Romance languages derived from Latin, it acquired an additional layer of meaning, denoting "knowledge gleaned from reading or studying books."

Literature, in essence, encompasses written or spoken works that articulate ideas, emotions, and narratives through language. It constitutes a diverse array of creative and intellectual endeavors, spanning novels, poems, plays, essays, short stories, and more. Often revered as an art form, literature provides a conduit for individuals to delve into and convey the human experience, cultural values, and societal quandaries.

Authors, through literature, wield language as a medium to convey their musings, emotions, and perspectives. They craft characters, settings, and narratives that resonate with readers, creating a tapestry that reflects the kaleidoscope of human experiences. Literature emerges as a potent tool for storytelling, cultural preservation, and social commentary.

While various literary forms may exhibit distinct styles, genres, and purposes, collectively, they contribute to the tapestry of human expression and the conservation of ideas and stories across epochs. Literature assumes a pivotal role in both shaping and mirroring the cultural, historical, and intellectual facets of societies.

Embarking on a five-year odyssey of studying English literature has proven instrumental in unraveling the intricacies of human behavior, culture, and its myriad expressions. As we stand on the threshold of pursuing our master's degree at the Department of English, the preliminary task is to articulate our definition of literature. This introspective exercise reveals a discernible shift in the collective understanding of literature, indicative of the evolving contours of literary discourse.

Before embarking on my postgraduate journey, I previously defined literature as the mirror of society, reflecting its multifaceted aspects. Employing the metaphor of a river, I depicted literature as a source of purification, with impurities settling like mud at the bottom while the pure essence flows at the surface, refining our hearts and souls. However, upon revisiting this perspective, I now discern a more profound understanding of literature that extends beyond the confines of the river analogy.

Literature, in my revised viewpoint, serves as a visionary tool, offering insights into aspects of life that elude our unaided perception. It transcends the metaphorical river, providing a panoramic view of the complexities inherent in the human experience. As aptly articulated by C. S. Lewis, literature does not merely describe reality; it supplements it, enhancing the essential skills required for daily life. In this regard, literature acts as an irrigator, rejuvenating the arid landscapes our lives may have become.

Salman Rushdie echoes this sentiment, emphasizing that literature serves as the terrain where one explores the highest and lowest points of human society and the human spirit. While not a purveyor of absolute truth, literature, in his view, unveils the truth embedded in the narrative, imagination, and the human heart.

William Shakespeare's perspective aligns with this evolved understanding, asserting that literature encapsulates the comprehensive essence of a nation's intellectual life. It is not merely a reflection but a dynamic force that engages with and shapes the intellectual and cultural milieu.

In essence, my grasp of literature has matured to recognize its capacity as a visionary force, capable of enriching, exploring, and encapsulating the intricate tapestry of the human experience and societal dynamics.