The Crucial Role of Literature in Shaping Human Experience
ali gunes
The University of New York Tirana
When
one attacks literature and considers it useless, I recall Sir Philip Sidney
with his often-quoted work An Apology for Poetry (or The Defence of
Poesy), published in 1595, and Percy Bysshe Shelley’s famous essay
“The Defence of Poetry” published posthumously in 1840 in Essays, Letters
from Abroad, Translations and Fragments. Both authors defended literature
in general and poetry in particular against the criticism that literature was
unnecessary during scientific developments because literature was considered useless
and a waste of time. Sidney rejects those tendencies throughout the writing in An Apology for
Poetry:
“. . . Only the poet, disdaining to be tied to any such subjection, lifted up
with the vigour of his own invention, doth grow in effect another nature, in
making things either better than nature bringeth forth, or, quite anew, forms
such as never were in nature, as the Heroes, Demigods, Cyclops, Chimeras,
Furies, and such like: so as he goeth hand in hand with nature, not enclosed
within the narrow warrant of her gifts, but freely ranging only within the
zodiac of his own wit.”
Shelley wrote
in “The Defence of Poetry”:
“But poets, or
those who imagine and express this indestructible order, are not only the
authors of language and of music, of the dance, and architecture, and statuary,
and painting; they are the institutors of laws, and the founders of civil
society, and the inventors of the arts of life, and the teachers, who draw into
a certain propinquity with the beautiful and the true, that partial
apprehension of the agencies of the invisible world which is called religion.”
Literature is profoundly significant in human life, often regarded
as a mere pastime or entertainment. Beyond its aesthetic value, literature
serves as a mirror reflecting the complexities of human existence, enabling
individuals to explore diverse perspectives, confront existential dilemmas, and
engage with the collective consciousness of humanity. Undeniably, the
multifaceted aspects of literature enrich lives, fostering empathy, nurturing
critical thinking, and preserving cultural heritage.
Literature serves as a gateway to different cultures, times, and
perspectives. Through literary works, individuals can transcend geographical
and temporal boundaries, immersing themselves in the lived experiences of
characters from diverse backgrounds in remote parts of the world. For instance,
in Fyodor Dostoevsky's Crime and Punishment (1866), readers are
transported to 19th-century Russia, grappling with moral ambiguity, psychological
turmoil, alienation from society, nihilism, and ethical dilemmas of the
protagonist, Rodion Raskolnikov. Such immersive experiences broaden one’s
worldview, fostering empathy and understanding of the complexities of human
nature.
Moreover, literature offers insights into the human condition,
elucidating universal truths and existential inquiries. From Shakespearean
tragedies exploring the essence of mortality to dystopian novels like George
Orwell's 1984 (1949) warning against totalitarianism, literature
confronts readers with profound questions about life, morality, and society. By
engaging with these existential themes, individuals gain a deeper understanding
of themselves and the world around them, navigating the intricacies of
existence with greater introspection and insight.
In addition, one of literature's most profound contributions lies
in its ability to cultivate empathy. As readers vicariously experience the
joys, sorrows, and struggles of fictional characters in each fictional work,
they develop a heightened sensitivity to the experiences of others. Studies
have shown that reading literary fiction enhances empathy by encouraging
individuals to adopt the perspectives of diverse characters and comprehend
their emotions and motivations. Literature promotes compassion and tolerance by
fostering empathy, bridging the divide between individuals from disparate
backgrounds and fostering a more inclusive society.
Besides, literature provides a platform for marginalised voices to
be heard, amplifying the narratives of those whose stories have been
historically silenced or overlooked. Works such as Toni Morrison's Beloved
(1987) and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie's Half of a Yellow Sun (2006) offer
poignant insights into the experiences of African Americans and Nigerians,
respectively, shedding light on the legacy of slavery, colonialism, and
systemic oppression. Literature empowers individuals to confront social
injustice and advocate for meaningful change by centring these marginalised
narratives.
Literature also nurtures critical thinking skills essential for
navigating an increasingly complex world. By presenting readers with nuanced
characters, conflicting ideologies, and moral dilemmas, literature prompts
individuals to question their assumptions, challenge prevailing norms, and
evaluate the ethical implications of their actions. For example, in J.D.
Salinger’s The Catcher in the Rye (1951)," protagonist Holden
Caulfield's disillusionment with societal hypocrisy invites readers to reflect
critically on the authenticity of human relationships and the pursuit of
personal integrity. This critical literary analysis requires readers to
interpret symbols, decipher metaphorical language, and discern underlying
themes, honing their analytical skills and intellectual insight. By
engaging with literature in this manner, individuals develop a capacity for
nuanced thinking and understanding, enabling them to navigate the
complexities of contemporary issues with discernment and sophistication.
Furthermore, literature fulfils a responsibility that other
sciences cannot do. Beyond its role in fostering individual growth, literature is
vital in preserving cultural heritage and collective memory. Literary works
serve as repositories of cultural traditions, historical events, and societal
values, offering insights into the cultural tapestry of humanity. From ancient
epics like Homer’s The Iliad and The Odyssey, which encapsulate
the mythological heritage of ancient Greece and the Trojan War, to modern
classics like Gabriel García Márquez’s One Hundred Years of Solitude (1967),
which chronicles the tumultuous history of Latin America, literature preserves
the rich tapestry of human experience for future generations.
Finally, literature catalyses cultural exchange and cross-cultural
dialogue, enabling individuals to appreciate diverse cultural perspectives and
traditions better worldwide. Through translation and dissemination, literary
works transcend linguistic barriers, fostering mutual understanding and
appreciation among individuals from different backgrounds. As such, literature bridges
disparate cultures, fostering a sense of shared humanity amidst cultural
diversity.
In conclusion, literature is central to human life, enriching
individuals’ experiences, fostering empathy, nurturing critical thinking, and
preserving cultural heritage. Through its ability to enlighten perspectives,
cultivate empathy, nurture critical thinking, and protect cultural heritage,
literature is a testament to the enduring power of the written word to
illuminate, inspire, and transform lives. In an increasingly fragmented and polarised
world, literature remains a beacon of hope, inviting individuals to engage with
the complexities of human existence with empathy, curiosity, and
open-mindedness.
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