Going deeper into the definition of literature, I really was able to understand it more. These days, it seems as if anything can be published for anyone to read, but it actually has to serve a purpose such as informing, entertaining, or serving as a lasting artistic merit. There are other little aspects of literature that I never thought of before our lecture. For example, I’ve experienced literature in an oral state but it didn’t cross my mind as actual oral literature. Also, discussing American Indian Literature, I learned a lot more. In my mind, it was just about Native Americans. I didn’t figure it had to be authentic and created by Native Americans. American Indian literature tells a story about the culture. It paints a picture of their lifestyle and rights the wrongs created by other individuals who falsely interpret the Native people. It’s a way the Native Americans eliminate the problems and confusions the non-Native people stir up. A lot of times, American Indians have been quiet about the lies, but their literature now allows them to speak up and testify to their righteousness. The fact that they do this just shows that they only wish for positivity in life. They could be violent and lash out at those who create these incorrect stories about them or treat them like aliens, but they don’t. Native Americans just long for that balance, and American Indian literature is a technique they use to try to obtain that.
July 18, 2018