Sowmya Gopinath's "What is Literature" (Summary)

 

Literature encompasses a substantial collection of written and spoken works that have captivated communities worldwide. It comprises written and spoken texts, including folk and epic tales, exploring experiences of individual existence, delving into the depths of the human psyche, examining interactions with others and the world, and considering social engagement within human and non-human communities globally.

 

From beloved fairy tales that engage children globally to profound philosophical poems, from succinct verses to extensive novels, and from inventive writings in modern media to ancient epic narratives, humanity has relished engaging with, creating, narrating, and listening to emotionally and intellectually rich expressions in various languages and forms. In essence, literature can be broadly defined as anything born of imaginative thought, exhibiting creativity and language use that is inventive and captivating.

 

The term 'literature' has been defined diversely over time by writers and critics alike. A standard dictionary describes it as a collection of written works, while a Wikipedia entry suggests it comprises written works of artistic or intellectual value. What stands out here is the varied nature of these definitions, reflecting the diverse range of categories that fall under the umbrella of 'literature'. Engaging in academic exploration reveals that fixed definitions in this context are elusive. The scope and significance of literature expand based on the reader's individual perceptions, worldview, and life philosophy.

 

Yuval Harari, in his acclaimed work "Sapiens," emphatically asserts that humans evolved not only as beings capable of complex communication through shared language but also as communities capable of creating fiction and envisioning events from imagination. This aspect of human evolution strongly underscores the paramount importance attributed to literature by communities and peoples, both across time and space.

 

Understanding literature requires employing various tools and methodologies to delve deeply into the realm of written works. Both the content and form of literary creations hold equal weight, and a discerning reader hones their aesthetic sensibility to interpret not only the explicit layers of meaning but also the subtle nuances and unspoken elements within the text. Engaging with literature can be an enriching and captivating experience. The reader is an active participant, approaching the text with a curious eye, making literature anything that elicits a creative response from its audience.

Focusing on both the content and form is crucial for literature students to gain a deeper understanding of texts. The form, or structure, provides aesthetic enjoyment, while the content evokes emotions and passions in the reader or listener. The use of flexible sentence structures that allow for vivid imagery and metaphors, carefully chosen vocabulary, and passages that vividly depict life all work together to create exceptional literary works. Debates surrounding literature and its appeal, particularly discussions about the 'universality' of art once considered a measure of 'good' literature, are integral to theoretical and critical discussions worldwide.

 

With the growing significance of Cultural Studies, a new perspective emerged in the approach to Literature. It is now seen as a cultural text, a form of cultural practice, with social hierarchies and power dynamics ingrained in the narratives that shape them. Examining, understanding, and critically analyzing these texts unveils the complexities of social relationships that influence them in a specific time and place. This approach doesn't limit critical study to only the literature acclaimed and recognized by critics, but also recognizes all forms of literature and considers every cultural practice as important and noteworthy.

 

Delving into the realm of literature introduces fresh viewpoints, allowing students to define literature based on how they have developed their aesthetic sensibilities. Engaging with literature as a dedicated student not only aids in personal growth but also helps in forming one's sense of self and shaping their social identity. This, in turn, empowers them to define and grasp the vast potential of literature in the contemporary world.