Classical literature serves as a bridge between past and present, offering timeless wisdom, trends and narratives. But what makes these classics relevant to the contemporary era, and what defines a book as classic?
For me, the beauty of classics lies in their invocation of originality and inspiration. While narratives and traits are often inspired by pre-existing works in contemporary literature, classics serve as fundamental blueprints. Each classic is remembered for the way it transcends time, is continually reinterpreted, and is experienced by readers across generations. Every time a ‘classic’ is revisited, it invites a new and different analysis of symbolism and offers admiration for its storytelling brilliance. Ultimately, what makes a classic to me lies in the ability to be enjoyed both now, and in the past, whilst maintaining a sense of originality.
Symbolism, in particular, I find is an indicator of a classic. Hidden meanings can be interpreted based on the reader’s experiences, making each individual’s experience of the book unique to them. For instance, Homer’s The Odyssey, presents itself as a man’s journey home through ancient Greece. Yet, at its core, one may interpret it as the universal struggle of resilience and overcoming of personal traumas and challenges. Odysseus’ trials such as the Cyclops and Sirens, can be interpreted as metaphors or relatable to personal battles in our own lives.
The language used within classics is also a testament to storytelling and enduring relevance. Poetic lines of Shakespeare, for instance, reflect society and what it means to be human. It is through this language that these stories live on. Although our language has evolved, our desires and experiences as human beings have not. As Robin Williams quoting N.H. Kleinbaum famously said:
“The human race is filled with passion.”
This passion, I believe, is something that transcends time and evolution.
Classics are an outlet of creativity for expressing these passions while offering glimpses into the past, to be enjoyed in the present. They challenge us and encourage us to think critically.
In a world so immersed within a digital realm, harnessing this literature to connect and seek comfort is important. To connect with what we are capable of, engaging our minds to think of the world around us rather than a fabricated one online.
Adaptability is another defining factor in what makes a classic, a classic. They hold the ability to be retold, reimagined and to inspire other works of art. Take Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, for example. The novel explores themes of social mobility and gender dynamics. Although set in the 19th century, it inspires a contemporary romance genre as shown through adaptions, such as Bridget Jones.
Even direct adaptation such as a live-action film, bring the narratives into the contemporary era . Granted, some modern changes may be made to appeal more to a modern audience, yet the soul of the origin remains. Considering the array of movie adaptations such as Little Women by Louisa May Alcott, Dracula by Bram Stoker, or The Picture of Dorian Gray, by Oscar Wilde. The list is endless, with these retellings honouring the tradition of the originals and making them accessible to new generations.
The Oxford dictionary describes ‘tradition’ as ‘a custom or way of doing something that has existed for a long time’. Evidently, classics embody tradition through their ability to be retold and remembered this way whilst being modernised for a lasting enjoyment by this ‘custom’.
Classics are a testament to human experiences, ever inspiring. Reminding us of the enduring power of literature, to connect and comfort us all, past, and present. In an era so conformed to digitalisation, it is important to remember their influence. In remembering these traditions, we find both honour in the past and meaning in the present.
Words by Sam Davies
Featured image courtesy of Sam Davies. No changes have been made to this image.