What IS literature?

[F.Emerald]

Recently, my friend and I had a little debate regarding the definition of ‘literature’. She claimed that all books are somewhat a form of literature, whether modern or classic. I, however, argued that only books which are highly regarded and commonly studied could be classified as literature.

Are we both somewhat right?

What would you argue?

[ShoutGrace]

F.Emerald, glad to see you here! :wave:

There have been several threads on this topic so far, lets see if I can find them . . . :D

One thread (http://www.online-literature.com/forums/showthread.php?t=18223)


Another thread (http://www.online-literature.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2217)


And this thread (http://www.online-literature.com/forums/showthread.php?t=15348)


And there may be more! :goof:

You seem to have stumbled upon a LitNet past time; that is, every once in awhile starting a thread asking 'What is Literature?' :lol: You're already ahead of some of us who have been here for awhile.

Hope this helps a little bit. See you around!! :nod:

[F.Emerald]

Ah, yes, of course defining literature would come up on a Literature board! You must excuse me, I'm brand new.

[ShoutGrace]

Ah, yes, of course defining literature would come up on a Literature board! You must excuse me, I'm brand new.

Oh, I suppose you may be forgiven this time. Just don't let us catch you doing it again. ;) ;)

[F.Emerald]

That must have been a terrible first impression, I'll be sure to keep up from now, obviously I'm not used to such high standards.

[ShoutGrace]

That must have been a terrible first impression, I'll be sure to keep up from now, obviously I'm not used to such high standards.


I hope you're kidding, and I hope it's obvious that I was kidding, F.Emerald. I am delighted to see you here and I look forward to all future contibutions. :D :D

[F.Emerald]

Yes, of course I'm joking as well.

I, personally, am delighted by almost everyone's impeccable grammar, it does make me feel quite at home.

[muhsin]

Thanks for that mutuall understanding from both of you.
It absolutely makes me too delighted.

[Veva]

I believe that literature is something very similar to history but somehow is even more. Literature inscrolls development in human feelings, relationships and philosophy. And that is something you will not find in historical papers.
Every form of written word that meets this definition should be called "literature".