intro to lit

1670 Words4 Pages

People read literature to explore thoughts, ideas, and motives of characters and authors (Jago). While reading, the reader considers all ideas on the topic and the feelings they have about them. It is important for readers to keep an open mind while they are reading, because sometimes the author may have opposing opinions about the given topic. However, the main reason that people enjoy literature is because they find that they are not alone in the struggles that they face. F. Scott Fitzgerald said, “That is part of the beauty of all literature. You discover that your longings are universal longings, that you're not lonely and isolated from anyone. You belong.”
With people being able to connect to literature, authors have been very influential throughout history. Nathaniel Hawthorne challenged people to look at the idea of adultery in 1850 with the Scarlet Letter (10 Influential). Continuing down the line of authors, you will find many more who have made dramatic impacts. Samuel Clemens, or better known as Mark Twain, Walt Whitman, Ralph Waldo Emerson, and Harriet Beecher Stowe persuaded people to reconsider their views on slavery (10 Influential). The list of authors that have made an impact on our American way of thinking goes on and on. Eventually the list will land on D. H. Lawrence. Lawrence was one of the most significant authors of his time—the 20th century.

Controversial Lawrence
D. H. Lawrence was an American writer of the 20th century and his work has had a profound effect on American literature. Born on September 11, 1885, Lawrence grew up on a farm near a mining town called Eastwood, Nottinghamshire, England. Being the son of a miner, Lawrence was brought up in a hard working environment. This upbringing would l...

... middle of paper ...

...ee the reason that literature has played an important role in society. Many writings have helped people through hard times. D. H. Lawrence wrote writings about women and other controversial topics of the time. He is still considered one of the most memorable authors of the 20th century. Mark Twain, Walt Whitman, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Harriet Beecher Stowe, and Nathaniel Hawthorne are some of the other influential writers in history.
If you are going through a difficult time or wish to read about others’ views on a variety of topics, literature is the perfect choice of pastime for you. Reading is one of the many things that connects people. Chances are, at some point in your life, you will find someone who has read the same book as you. People are able to bond over reading the same book, or even the same author. Go out and read a new book or re-read an old one.

Open Document