Why Should We Care About Literature and Classic Books?

My family read a lot while I was growing up. I remember many days at the library where I worked my way through various series and authors. Over time it became clear, even to my young mind, that some books were just better written than others. Those books offered something more lasting to me. The stories stayed with me because there was a depth to them that went beyond the basic plot. It was the difference between a feast and a snack.

I do not teach certain titles so that students have an "impressive" book list. I select books that have stood the test of time and will spark meaningful discussions about life. It's important to read things that might challenge our suppositions, and also encourage us to dialogue with the author and those around us. Classic literature, in particular, has the power to capture our attention because it goes beyond current philosophies and worldviews. Instead it helps us to remember that our modern society is part of a larger context and history, and we would do well to learn from the past as we work towards a better version of ourselves in the future. 

Many of these books also open a world of beauty through their writing styles. True, a student's first interaction with Shakespeare or Hawthorne may feel daunting, confusing, and even boring. There is value, however, in experiencing different art forms beyond our usual preferences. No true artist ever created something beautiful and meaningful and then said, "I hope one day teenagers will critique this in a classroom." Quite the contrary! Art, and good literature, should stir our imaginations. At its core, there is beauty in good literature. We live in a practical age that has its roots in industrialism. We are continually striving for new technology that makes life easier or more productive. Let us hope that along the way we do not lose the ability to appreciate the beauty of nature, music, art and language.

And so, my friends, I will continue to champion the need to read well-written literature from a variety of time periods. It's good for our minds, and it is good for our souls.

There is no Frigate like a Book

To take us Lands away

Nor any Coursers like a Page

Of prancing Poetry.

This Traverse may the poorest take

Without oppress of Toll;

How frugal is the Chariot

That bears the Human Soul!

~Emily Dickinson