Why are We Doing This?

This is a question I get hit with many times a day in my English class. Ultimately, I can answer this question, but the answer I give really only applies to me. It is truly up to the individual to find value in literature. Many who look down upon literature really do not understand literature. I can supply the understanding, but I cannot force one to accept it and, in turn, embrace literature. For instance, I can tell one how broccoli is good for one's health, but I cannot force it down one's throat. Thus, it is the same with literature: Literature is good for one's mental health, but I cannot force literature into one's mind.

Keep in mind that literature goes far beyond the mere reading of stories and poetry. Literature is the study of every aspect of human existence throughout history. Furthermore, literature is the study of the evolution of human thought throughout the ages. Therefore, if one cannot understand the importance of such a study, what can a humble English teacher say? The best I can do is to open one's mind to a much larger world to explore.

Cheers!
Allan A. Zarbock
www.aazarbock.com