Literature and technology

I was recently looking at quotes about literature when I came across a specific quote by Alvin Kernan.

I interpreted Kernan's quote to be claiming that the value of writing in our modern, technological society is so low that it cannot even be termed literature.

And I, for one, took immediate offense to such an idea.

First of all, literature or a literary work, by its definition, is seen to be an exemplary or universal example of writing.

I find it ridiculous to say that digital technology inhibits writers or artists' ability to create a literary work of consequence. The challenge, and sign of a great writer, in the electronic age should be their ability to overcome technological advances that may have changed the way writers work and to revolutionize literature today to reflect society as it is now. I also find it ridiculous to imply that advances in technology will immediately wipe out traditional forms of writing and literature or that those who embrace technology can no longer be good writers who merit their works termed ‘literature.'

As it stands, literature can also be defined as a body of writings from a specific language, period, or people. This definition would take into account that the majority of society today uses a significant amount of electronics in their daily lives and would incorporate this into their writing – tactfully and tastefully.

While I don't feel that an entire book in text message speak should automatically be considered literature, literature is about the art and effectiveness of language in a body of writing. A book featuring text messaging as the language would be appropriate in certain cases and should be appreciated as a stylistic and artistic technique employed by a writer.

Along with that, readers must consider the entire body of works that is now published exclusively in an online format: books, articles, stories, etc. It would be beyond ridiculous to say that the electronic age has ruined the value of these books and reading them.

I am of the generation of readers who prefer to actually hold a book in my hands or open a newspaper to read it, but I certainly understand the value of quick and constant access to online writing and I definitely understand those who enjoy having a device that stores multiple pieces of writing in one easily portable place. To say that books or literature that appears in online or electronic format cannot have the authority and worthiness of being termed ‘literature' is unreasonable.

In the near future, many people predict that society will function solely on the use of electronics and electronic reading tools like Kindle's and Nook's. I highly doubt that, if this happened, this revolution will stop the creation of valuable literature; it will simply open the literary canon to a more expansive style of writing and art.

Recognizing technology as a way to modernize and transform literature is going to be the signature that this generation, and those following it, use to make modern literature universal and exemplary.