Definition of “Good” or “Worthwhile” Literature
It is impossible to define the concept of good or worthwhile literature precisely. Each work is unique and touches on specific topics, some of which may resonate with one reader and be alien to another. Nevertheless, if one defines the concept of good or worthy literature, it is advisable to consider the standard for the era. In particular, I refer to the significance of the topics discussed in the literature for the corresponding time period.
Regarding examples of good literature, A Doll’s House, published by Henrik Ibsen, stands out from the works I studied. The piece discusses the challenges faced by women in a male-dominated society. This topic remains as relevant today as it was then.
Speaking of worthwhile literature, I want to highlight Stephen Crane’s “The Open Boat,” the central theme of which is the confrontation between man and nature. The result reveals a topic far from close to every person, and mass character is also an important parameter determining good literature. Nevertheless, the work is worth reading due to its exciting narrative.
The Open Boat
“The Open Boat” explores the plight of a man who was isolated not only from society but also from God and nature. The most apparent theme is the work’s struggle between man and the natural world. Although the characters initially believe that the rough sea is a hostile force against them, they conclude that nature is ambivalent.
At the beginning of the last section, the correspondent rethinks his view of the hostility of nature: “The serenity of nature amid the struggle of the individual is nature in the wind and nature in the vision of people. She did not seem cruel, merciful, treacherous, or wise to him. But she was indifferent, categorically indifferent” (Crane 52). As was mentioned earlier, the work should serve as a reference for its time, and the theme of humanity and nature will always remain relevant. The piece explores the theme of rethinking humanity’s hostility to nature, which is a crucial topic for review.
A Rose for Emily
When talking about a work that is not good or worthwhile literature, William Faulkner’s “A Rose for Emily” comes to mind. The essence of the work may not be apparent to the average non-specialist. Faulkner employs various literary devices to advance, convey, and develop this story. The narrative’s opening sentence immediately informs the reader that “Miss Emily Grierson is dead” (Faulkner 2). Only after the beginning of the fifth section does the reader learn that even the first of them is a memory.
The effect is powerful because the reader cannot understand the story’s period. Although this narrative approach is undoubtedly original, the work should still stand out for its essence. With all these elements in mind, William Faulkner can advance the story in a way that may not be chronological but still makes logical sense. Despite this, the work lacks a cohesive narrative, and the problem the author aims to address is unclear.
Lulu Anew
Lulu Anew by Étienne Davodeau tells the story of a woman who decided to escape her routine. The work reveals that women often suffer from the patterns surrounding them, which do not allow them to fulfill themselves. The author presents an essential topic for discussion, making one wonder what would happen if every woman acted like Lulu. “There is no point in waiting for their letter to know their answer” (Davodeau 30).
Sometimes, it is better to decide than to spend your whole life waiting for an answer. This idea forms the basis of the work and reflects the life of any person. Sometimes, there comes a stage when waiting occupies the whole process of life, and the necessity to make decisions, although unexpected, still arises. Each person can isolate something from this work and interpret it in their own way; therefore, this work is an example of good literature. This work also raises the question of a woman in a patriarchal society, a topic highly relevant to the discussion.