Formal Qualities:
* Language: Literature uses language in a creative and deliberate way. This can involve figurative language, such as metaphors, similes, and personification, as well as unique syntax and vocabulary choices.
* Structure: The way a literary work is structured, whether it be a novel, poem, play, or essay, is crucial. This includes elements like plot, character development, setting, and theme.
* Style: The writer's personal style, which is shaped by their individual voice and the choices they make about language, structure, and tone, is a defining feature of literature.
* Imagery: Vivid descriptions that appeal to the senses and create a strong impression on the reader.
* Rhythm and Meter: This is particularly relevant to poetry, but it can also apply to prose in terms of sentence structure and flow.
Content Qualities:
* Universality: Literature often explores themes and ideas that are relevant to all people, regardless of their background or culture.
* Truth: Literature can reveal truths about human nature, society, and the world around us, even if those truths are not always pleasant.
* Emotion: Literature has the power to evoke a wide range of emotions in the reader, from joy and love to sadness and anger.
* Imagination: Literature invites us to imagine new worlds, possibilities, and perspectives.
* Insight: Literature can offer us fresh perspectives on familiar ideas and help us to understand ourselves and the world better.
* Social Commentary: Literature often reflects and critiques social issues, challenging assumptions and promoting understanding.
Other Important Qualities:
* Originality: While literature draws inspiration from existing sources, it strives to be original and offer fresh perspectives.
* Coherence: A literary work should be cohesive and well-organized, with all its elements working together to create a unified whole.
* Enduring Value: Great literature has the ability to transcend time and continue to resonate with readers across generations.
It's important to note that not all literature possesses all of these qualities to the same degree. Some works may excel in certain areas while others may be more notable for their different strengths. Ultimately, what defines "good" literature is subjective and depends on the individual reader's preferences and values.