
This week's question is:
What makes a contemporary novel a classic?
Discuss a book which you think fits the category of ‘modern classics’ and explain why.
A novel which has the timelessness feel to it can be taken as a classic. Any novel, contemporary or otherwise, that fits this spirit can be termed as a classic. Now what is a modern classic? For some it might be a contradiction of sorts. A modern novel which is classic. But why not? If it expresses life with beauty and truth artistically, and has a lasting effect, then it is definitely a modern classic. It also has to have an universal appeal. When each one of us connect to that in some way or identify with that somewhat, that novel is termed as a classic. Therefore themed books which depict, love, hate, death, that struggle for life, faith, belief along with emotions touch all of us in one or the other.
I name certain authors which are taken as modern classic authors..Few of those are John Steinbeck, John Kerouac, Orhan Pamuk. J.M. Coetzee, and Gunter Grass. They depict society of different places yet we can identify with their writings. Because the human spirit can never die and unifies all of us.
I can mention so many books but I will only mention one. Catch 22 by Joseph Heller. Why? It maybe an tongue in cheek account of travesty of war but it is precisely that which makes it a timeless classic as it tells us about the ramifications of war.
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What authors and books are you most thankful for?
I am thankful to any author who writes timeless books. Modern, or otherwise. Add any book that gives me pleasure....be it poetry, crime fiction or science books..
Here's my BTT: http://wp.me/pFyoG-qd
ReplyDeleteTimeless is a good litmus test!
ReplyDeleteGreat list,mine are my two favorite authors
ReplyDeleteSometimes it's hard to predict which books will become classics, but I love your answer.
ReplyDeletea very interesting set of possible future classics-
ReplyDeleteI agree, timeless novels are awesome!
ReplyDeleteI'm glad you included Orhan Pamuk on your list. I didn't think about him when I was writing, but he is one of my recent favorites. Snow is one of the best books I've read.
ReplyDeleteI definitely agree with Catch-22!
ReplyDeleteThat is a fantastic question and quite interesting when you think about it.
ReplyDeleteA bit off-topic but I just wanted to let you know that I've given you a blogger award! You may pick it up over here. Congratulations! =)
a great list Grass is one of my favourite writers ,all the best stu
ReplyDeleteTimelessness is a great thing to look for in a book!
ReplyDeleteHere's my BTT: http://myreadersblock.blogspot.com/2010/11/booking-through-thursday-thankful.html
I mentioned Orhan Pamuk in my post too. He really does have a thoughtful, lasting feel, not to mention great writing about relevant topics. I need to read more of his works.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you; timeless books are often the best.
ReplyDeleteAnd time will tell...
ReplyDeleteWhat is that quality of timelessness? What does it consist of?
ReplyDeleteThank you for your thoughts.
I do like the authors you put forward as potential classics - good choices!
ReplyDeleteWhat a lovely definition! :) I have to agree that Catcher in the Rye, Kerouac etc. are modern classics.
ReplyDeleteI wonder if the concept of 'timeless' changes over time. What we consider timeless today could very easily feel dated in 100 years. It's an interesting thought to ponder...good post!
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