My Learning Interest In English Literature
Literature has the unique ability to constantly influence the world, which fascinates me as an aspiring English Literature student. There is a certain thrill that comes from analysing something to the core, in uncovering every interpretation and teaching that authors and poets purposefully embed into their work. A writer’s way of playing with words has always captivated me, it’s ingenious how they use their wit to create texts which are powerfully hitting and insightful in countless ways.
The A-Level English Literature course has truly broadened my opinions on how literature excels in influencing us as a society, as can be seen in Hosseini’s ‘The Kite Runner’. The clever portrayal of the diverse characters truly engrossed me into the narrative as Hosseini has described and developed the individuals with certain intentions in mind; this being clearly portrayed in Amir’s definite hatred for his younger self by using an adult-narrative alongside the continuous, first-person narrative. This is notable in how we view characters, our first impressions of them stay imprinted and, therefore, create the foundation base of how we think that they affect the rest of the narrative and in which ways. Based in Afghanistan, the novel is from a diverse culture to what we are usually required to study and I believe that this is necessary step forward in literary study, as having an interest and respect for other cultures other than our own is extremely important, it boasts equality and cultural appreciation.
I might mention ‘The Bell Jar’ and perhaps other Hosseini works, once I’ve read them. The critical viewpoints attached to literature are almost equal in importance to the author’s intent, and studying History with English Literature has truly helped developed my ability to apply critical teachings to all formats of text. The surrounding world and its history largely influences the majority of literature forms written, whether being inspired by past teachings or taking these and putting into context the true effect the past can have on the modern world. The fundamentals required for analysing a text properly is a skill which is only strengthened through understanding the literary background-knowledge needed; obtained, thus, through extensive research and reading.
Studying maths has positively influenced my investigative thinking process, in which I can consider all the possible solutions and interpretations before reasoning with and settling on the most analytical and perhaps, the most obscure ones. Becoming a reading buddy and a social mentor has further developed my communication skills and has enabled me to be able to solve problems and help people positively progress in what they are working to achieve. As a reading buddy I supported younger students in their reading, which was particularly valuable to be a part of as over the year I began to notice a real change in their reading ability and confidence. What I feel has tested and extended my communication skills the most is volunteering at a charity bookshop weekly; the level of teamwork and responsibility demanded is something I find extremely valuable.
The prospect of giving something back to the community further enthralled me, as the experience is highly rewarding and worthwhile. I often spend my volunteering breaks going through the vary of literary forms available in the shop, it’s fascinating how literature can be so vividly portrayed in so many different ways, each with their own story or message. I have recently taught myself how to ride a bike, this being something I was quite hesitant about. The process was certainly challenging, though the outcome outshone this; the build in confidence and the end result was worth the initial fear I felt approaching the challenge.
