Literature students are passionate about the written word and its impact on society. As they delve into the world of literature, they need to follow writers who have significantly impacted the field. These writers are known for their unique writing styles, their exploration of diverse themes, and their ability to captivate audiences with their storytelling. From classic writers who have influenced generations to contemporary authors pushing the boundaries of what literature can be, there is no shortage of writers for literature students to follow. Reading the works of these writers can not only deepen a student's understanding of the literary world but also inspire them to create careers that will leave a lasting impact. Here is the list of 7 writers every literature student must follow.
William Shakespeare
William Shakespeare is a seminal figure in English literature, widely regarded as the greatest playwright of all time. His works, including classics such as "Romeo and Juliet," "Hamlet," and "Macbeth," are still widely performed and studied today, four centuries after his death. Shakespeare's writing is characterised by its complex themes, poetic language, and exploration of universal human experiences, making his works relevant to readers and audiences of all ages and backgrounds. Despite being written hundreds of years ago, his themes and characters resonate with people today, making him a timeless writer whose impact on literature and culture is immeasurable. Shakespeare's writing continues to captivate audiences worldwide, and studying his works is a must for any literature student.
Jane Austen
Jane Austen was a trailblazer in the world of literature and is widely considered one of the greatest novelists in the English language. Her works, written during the late 18th and early 19th centuries, remain popular and widely read even today, more than two centuries after they were first published. Austen's writing is celebrated for its sharp wit, insightful social commentary, and memorable characters, particularly the strong female characters who often take centre stage in her stories. Her novels explore love, marriage, society, and self-discovery themes and are widely regarded as timeless classics that continue to captivate readers and influence modern literature.
Charles Dickens
Charles Dickens was an influential English writer who lived in the 19th century. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest novelists of the Victorian era and is known for his mastery of character development. Through his works, Dickens sheds light on the social and economic struggles of his time, offering a vivid and often critical commentary on the state of society. His memorable characters, including Oliver Twist, Ebenezer Scrooge, and Miss Havisham, continue to captivate readers and have become iconic figures in English literature. With his imaginative writing style and powerful storytelling abilities, Dickens remains one of the world's most widely read and celebrated writers.
Toni Morrison
Toni Morrison was a pioneering and award-winning author who made a lasting impact on American literature with her powerful and moving works. Her writing is recognised for its lyrical and evocative language, profound insight into the black experience in America, and the exploration of universal themes of love, loss, and the human spirit. Morrison's books are widely read, studied, and celebrated for their ability to inspire and educate, and her legacy continues to influence new generations of writers and readers.
James Baldwin
James Baldwin was a renowned writer and activist who significantly impacted 20th-century literature and the Civil Rights Movement. His works delve into complex themes of race, sexuality, and social justice and offer insightful perspectives on the human condition. Baldwin's writing style is characterised by its lyrical prose and powerful themes, which continue to captivate audiences today. Through his writing, Baldwin shed light on the experiences of marginalised communities and challenged societal norms, making him a significant voice in the ongoing fight for equality and justice.
Ernest Hemingway
Ernest Hemingway was an American writer widely recognised for his minimalistic writing style and his ability to capture the complexities of human experiences in simple language. He wrote about a range of subjects, including war, love, and loss, and his works are considered some of the essential pieces of American literature of the 20th century. Hemingway's style, characterised by short, simple sentences and a focus on sensory details, influenced a generation of writers and continues to be highly regarded today. His works are still widely read and studied, and he remains an iconic figure in literature.
Gabriel García Márquez
Gabriel García Márquez was a master of storytelling, weaving elements of magic and realism in his novels. His works are considered some of the most outstanding examples of Latin American literature and have been widely read and celebrated worldwide. García Márquez's writing style is characterised by its imaginative landscapes and exploration of the human experience. He often uses magical realism as a tool to uncover the complexities of human emotion and relationships. García Márquez's works are known for their detailed descriptions, vivid characters, and intricate storylines, making him a must-read for anyone interested in Latin American literature and the human experience.
