The Classics

[KanoasDestiny]

Just curious, what do you think makes a book a "classic"?

 

[MountainWoman]

I think it's a book that spans generations and withstands the test of time. I think the book has writing that pulls you in and takes you somewhere so you are one with the book. I've been thinking about this question and wonder if there are generational gaps in classics and what the "modern" classics would be. Would the Twilight series be considered classics because of their broad appeal?

Good question!!

 

[KanoasDestiny]

That's a good question. Like for me, when I think of classics I tend to think of the works of Charles Dickens, Jane Austin, and L.M. Montgomery. But then The Chronicles of Narnia, Lord of the Rings, and The Neverending Story also come to mind. Perhaps some day, like you said, Harry Potter and Twilight will be classics.

 

[Riverrose28]

I agree, I think it depends on the appeal of certain literature to the public. HG Wells to me is a classic writer, with works such as WAr of Worlds, also Les Miserables, by Victor Hugo, and now it appeals to a new generation, because of the movies. I think what classifies a book as a classic is how many readers actually read it and then pass it on to the next generation.

 

[ohmt]

I think it's a book that spans generations and withstands the test of time. I think the book has writing that pulls you in and takes you somewhere so you are one with the book.

Exactly! I think Harry Potter and A Song of Ice and Fire will become classics, but would not consider them as such just yet since they are still fairly "young". I would not think Twilight will become a classic, I think it is/was a fad (and yes, I loved the books!).

That's a good question. Like for me, when I think of classics I tend to think of the works of Charles Dickens, Jane Austin, and L.M. Montgomery. But then The Chronicles of Narnia, Lord of the Rings, and The Neverending Story also come to mind. Perhaps some day, like you said, Harry Potter and Twilight will be classics.

I would consider all of those to be classics as well, but disagree on Twilight. I have a feeling it will be long forgotten in 100 years. Harry Potter on the other hand, I see that being passed down for many generations.

 

[muffntuf]

Adding to that tone - I think the Hunger Games series will become classics, it crosses generations and has a classical appeal - an overtone on society or where it could go, etc.