FAMOUS DEFINITIONS

 

famous definitions of literature by renowned poets and writers across history.

These reflect their philosophies and views about what literature is and what it does: �� 1. Ezra Pound (Poet & Critic) "Literature is news that stays news." ✅ Meaning: Unlike daily news that fades, literature remains relevant and meaningful across generations. ✍️ 2. Virginia Woolf (Novelist & Essayist) "Literature is strewn with the wreckage of those who have minded beyond reason the opinion of others." ✅ Meaning: True literature often comes from brave, original thinkers who ignore criticism and follow their own vision. �� 3. Oscar Wilde (Playwright & Poet) "The difference between literature and journalism is that journalism is unreadable and literature is not read." ✅ Meaning: A witty remark on how literature has lasting value, even if ignored, unlike fleeting journalism. �� 4. T.S. Eliot (Poet & Critic) "Literature is the expression of society, just as the word is the expression of man." ✅ Meaning: Literature reflects the values, conflicts, and culture of the society from which it arises. �� 5. C.S. Lewis (Writer & Scholar) "Literature adds to reality, it does not simply describe it." ✅ Meaning: Literature enriches our understanding of the world by helping us see beyond our own experiences. �� 6. Salman Rushdie (Novelist) "A poet's work is to name the unnameable, to point at frauds, to take sides, start arguments, shape the world, and stop it going to sleep." ✅ Meaning: Literature isn't passive—it challenges, provokes, and keeps society alert. �� 7. Percy Bysshe Shelley (Romantic Poet) "Poets are the unacknowledged legislators of the world." ✅ Meaning: Writers and poets influence thought, values, and change in subtle but powerful ways. �� 8. Roland Barthes (Literary Theorist) "Literature is the question minus the answer." ✅ Meaning: Literature often raises deep questions rather than providing clear solutions.