The American literature conveyed in most of the pieces show tremendous change and an aspect going beyond the fundamental rules. Writers in the modern American literature bracket have gone an extra mile of not just focusing on a particular theme or method of presentation, but instead, they do exploration and write on what they find more compelling. The literature itself implores styles that are relatively important to the theme identified by the writer.
Part I: Identify the reading from this week which resonated the most with you. Discuss your reaction or connection to the piece.
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I found Alice Walker, "Turning Madness Into Flowers #1" (Walker, 2013) very significant in the readings given. The author uses this poem to encourage the new generation born in turmoil, witnessing war or murder, and being oppressed that these events have an end and that they have been taken to a new dawn. She writes in the poem that our ancestors might have been treated brutally or died in the hands of oppressors, but it should not be a reason for resentment inform of ‘madness’. Turning Madness Into Flowers means moving forward, away from the memories of our ancestors, memories of being poorly treated or fear but rather control ourselves. Through this, we will discover how the world is a better place to live in. This poem bore the importance of giving hope amidst despair and fear.
Part II: Based on all the readings done up to this point, what, in your opinion, are the most important characteristics that distinguish American literature? Do you think that our literature is a good representation of 'American Identity'?
It is clear that most readings are written from the writers current perspective or how things are in the postmodernism era (Richard Ruland, 2016). Writer concentrate on what they find to need more attention, and they write it to make it known. There is a divergence from American identity as the themes presented may not show American issues only but instead problems that affect the world. The American identity is therefore not a matter of concern for the writers
Part III: What contemporary author do you think will represent the early 21st century in an American literature class of the future? What do you think this writer brings to the table that is representative of American life or that shows a distinct and important cultural trend or message/theme that is worth studying?
I would say Maya Angelou represented the early 21st century in an American Literature class of the future. A civil rights activist and poet, she widely covered issues on family, gender, political issues and racial inequality which are still presented in the modern society. Even though racial inequality is slowly diminishing in America, matters of family, gender and political forms cannot be avoided and need self-awareness and knowledge on how to tackle them. Maya ‘s diverse experience is spread on these issues in most of her work.
Conclusion
It is clear that American literature has taken strides and focused on the impending issues of America, but not much revealing the American identity. Writers continue to share and give insights on issues that would still be of critical study in the future.
References
Richard Ruland, M. B. (2016). From Puritanism to Postmodernism;A History of American Literature (1ST ed.). London: Routledge.
Walker, A. (2013). The World Will Follow Joy: Turning Madness into Flowers. New York: New Press.
