Thatcher Ray, Classic Problem

Classical literature is normally recognized through its complex structure and concepts as well as its monotonous high school required reading. Yet these works are not simply read to confuse and bore the student body. When these books were written, the writers used fiction to replicate and convey the issues of their time. Authors like F. Scott Fitzgerald, George Orwell, and Harper Lee wrote novels of fiction that are recognized throughout the nation as “classics.” The classical authors’ books touched on economic, social, and political issues plaguing their respective 1920s, 40s, and 60s. Unfortunately, these issues continue to show themselves in the modern day, around 100 years later. The repetition of racial struggles, class structure, and government manipulation continue to show themselves all throughout the world. Through literature, the issues of the past can be analyzed with the purpose of recognizing the pattern of concerns, continually showing themselves into the present day.

Fitzgerald, Lee, and Orwell all were educated and eventually critically acclaimed authors. Fitzgerald

lived through the Great Depression and World War I and was highly educated, graduating Princeton, as well as spending time in the military. His focus on American culture and themes of idealism makes him a relevant critic for the issues affecting the nation in his day. Harper Lee grew up and spent her life in the highly segregated and racist state, particularly during her lifetime, of Alabama. Witnessing atrocities like those in her first novel make her a perfect spokesperson for the social issues of her time. As for George Orwell, he was an infamous social critic who was incredibly outspoken in his opposition to communism and totalitarianism. His writing was his way of spreading his views, with his novels reflecting the issues of his current day.

In classic literature of many years before, the economic, political, and social issues can be seen from the past into today. In the year 2022, there is still economic division. There is still political conflict and government trepidation. And there is still racial injustice all throughout, not just the United States, but the entire world. In short, the issues of early 20th century life have created a pattern. A pattern that’s repeating itself. The authors F. Scott Fitzgerald, George Orwell, and Harper Lee have written their stories in order to share their beliefs on what took over their societies. Now, new authors will emerge today, to tell their stories, different stories that will contain the same complications afflicting humanity. It’s hard to know whether these issues will repeat again, but so far it’s not looking good. Change is needed. This does not need to be a pattern. The authors of the past may not have known it would come again, but their stories show us that they once existed before, and unfortunately may again. Lots of hope should exist, that maybe the next writings will contain new problems. Time for change has come.