Belles-lettres, the French term for beautiful writing, is literature summed up and in its purest sense. Literature is the art of putting words together with such pleasing order to the ear and the mind that they outlast time and resonate with the deepest values of man. However, the range of writing that meets this qualification is still incredibly expansive. Both the method and purpose of writing can vary widely and, because of this, literature can take on many different appearances. Nevertheless, in all literature, a unifying theme is the author endeavoring to expose the reader to some new information or method of thinking.
One facet of literature is its ability to preserve a culture and act as a written history. Literature is the work of writing that outlasts both its author and even possibly its subject. It has a timeless quality that reaches beyond the setting of the book. The meaning of the book is not dependent on the technology of the day or on the current events of the time. While the inclusion of these things does not prevent writing from being a timeless piece of literature, the dependence on them to convey its message does. Literature also expresses the cultural values, or the desired values of the time. Sometimes, this can be expressed through a commentary on contemporary issues. An author can take a personal experience and present it in such a way that communicates his meaning, such as in autobiography, or use some external experience and record his interpretation of its significance. Another form of literature is the fictional narrative, whether realistic or figurative. These forms can convey a message that may not be simple to express using the current events. An example of this is allegories, which use the surreal and fantastical to present a deeper message.
Another attribute of literature is its ability to bring the reader into contact with another set of experiences. Literature brings the senses and emotions of distant locations, eras, or situations to life through the words on the page. Authors can transport the reader to distant locations, vividly describing the smells and sounds, exposing them to the joys and dangers of the scene. Literature can also transcend the limitations that time imposes and bring the ancient world within arm’s reach. Likewise, literature brings the struggles of people from different stations in life into focus. Readers can experience the hope, worries, and battles of a different class of people through the strength of literature.
Some of the earliest examples of writing in America fit this definition, making them the original American Literature. Most of these early writings can be categorized into either a general history or a personal narrative. One such example of early writing is John Smith’s The General History of Virginia, New England, and the Summer Isles. This multivolume work recounts the events of Jamestown and subsequent New World events from the perspective of John Smith. His style of writing fits well within the category of a history despite his use of third person and lofty descriptions to report his personal achievements. The tone of the book is one of a general feeling of condescension towards the Native Indians that Smith encounters, mostly because of his lack of understanding of their culture and customs. Smith feels morally superior to the natives but also the desire to Christianize them and reform their “barbarous” lifestyles. Though possibly an obligatory gesture, it was part of the motivation that Smith mentions for his exploration and interaction with the natives. This book serves as an example of literature as a record of early events and John Smith’s perception of them.
Another example of early American writing is Of Plymouth Plantation by William Bradford. This work is similar in purpose to John Smith’s account; both of them are histories of a settlement in the New World. However, Bradford’s approach to writing reflects his difference in character. He wrote simply, as a record of the events, without the glamour that Smith used to promote his actions. Additionally, there is a marked difference in the treatment of encounters with the natives. Smith always referred to them as “barbarians” and conveyed a sense of smug superiority. In contrast, Bradford treated them with respect, even a sense of admiration. At one point, during the account of a skirmish between the settlers and a party of Indians, Bradford recognizes the valiant behavior of one of the warriors. Bradford’s book is another example of early literature as a history. With it, he presents another attitude of exploration.
Anne Bradstreet is another early American writer who contributed to early American Literature. Her poetry, while indirectly preserving the culture of the time, draws a picture of her character and allows the reader to “meet” her. The poems were not written with the intent to serve as a historical record, in fact, they were not even written with the intention of being published, but were simply meant to be a legacy for Anne’s family. However, the simple honesty of the poems creates a window into the Puritan community in the New World. The captured emotions of “To My Dear and Loving Husband” and “Upon the Burning of Our House” allow the reader to relive the moments alongside her.
Another poet of early America and a contemporary of Anne Bradstreet is Edward Taylor. His poetry, like Bradstreet’s, was not intended for publication. It was for his personal reflection and meditation. However, the quality of the writing and the spiritual lessons that are present in it makes it an important addition to literature. Taylor’s contemplation in his poem “Meditation 8, First Series” is not only insightful, but also a very lively and vivid work. His ability to bring about deeper thought and capture the reader with his imagery gives his writing a place among American Literature.
William Byrd’s writing returns more to the historical purpose of literature. In the selection “Indian Neighbors” from The History of the Dividing Line, he records the content of a discussion that he had with one of his Indian guides. His narrative and commentary on the discussion is presented honestly and he gives gracious treatment of the Indian’s religion. His style of writing, along with his purpose, varies from both John Smith’s and William Bradford’s accounts. Byrd was intending to present a culture other than his own and to do so he uses a journalistic approach for his record.
Jonathan Edwards exemplifies another style of writing. His sermon, “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God” is a premier example of logic used in a persuasive essay. Edwards’s purpose in writing is to directly influence the reader, and, in the case of this sermon, convince them of their perilous position before God. However, all of Edwards’s writing is extremely orderly. Even his personal narrative reflects his systematic philosophical approach to life and walks the reader along with his train of thought. His outstanding ability to present issues and methodically disprove all positions apart from his own gives his writing a place in American Literature.
“Letters from an American Farmer” by St. Jean de Crèvecœur is another piece of writing that serves to preserve the culture of the time by admiring the American way of life. Similar to William Byrd’s account, Crèvecœur’s writing is very much a narrative style. The unique position of Crèvecœur as a Frenchman living in America gives him a distinctive perspective. This is displayed in his writing as he describes the ideals of America. He presents man as naturally good and believes that, when given freedom, man will improve both himself and his surroundings.
Literature encompasses a wide range of writing, including many different styles and intents. There are persuasive essays, poetry collections, and historical narratives. All of them have their own point, and address a certain aspect of life in their time. Nevertheless, the writing is still relevant today because each offers a distinctive perspective to the modern reader. In each work, there is a timeless quality and a message that is not limited by time.
