What Defines a Classic?

[srividyag1]

In my opinion, classics are books which have withstood the test of time. And are from a different era, compared to the social, political, cultural situations of today. Classics must have literary value and must not be just scintillating prose. They must be deep and invoke poignant thoughts.

[flaming_quills]

This is a good question. Personally I think age is a major determinant for a classic followed closely by its contribution to the literary sphere. In other words, it must be well-written, have a big impact on society and memorable.

[cassandra l]

I think a classic has real literary value and is considered by literary critics to be "a classic". These books are normally older and highly read, but even books like Harry Potter are considered classics for children. So, I am not entirely sure if there is definite criteria to be a classic.

[Isaac Oh]

I think the definition of a classic book is relative. Most modern books are classics too.

[AvishaJain_13]

I think simplicity in writing style but complexity ik emotional development of characters is what defines a classic book

[borussiakr]

I don't know. I was wondering this these days, when I finished reading The Old Men and The Sea. In my head, I thought "Is that right? it's not possible". I even had a little chat with my dad about it, because he loves fishing and could feel a connection to the story, I don't know. In short, I intend to read it again, perhaps with a clearer head (I was reading some more technical books) and draw my conclusions.

After all, did anyone here have any deep insights into this Hemingway classic?

[NicoleFaith24]

I think a classic is a book that can always be relatable in any decade of the future. In other words, a book that can stand the test of time.

[IgnisRhapsody]

I think that only time can define what a classic is. I like to believe that every classic book has meaning. If a book teaches us something, and that lesson is so good that it survives for decades, it deserves to be a classic. I admit that I know "classic" books that in my opinion do not teach anything positive, but people still like them. So the interpretation of what is a classic is a bit subjective.

[Onwuesi Promise]

A classic is a book that is timeless. It may be as old as but will still be relevant to the modern society. A classic should be applicable to many generations.

[Charmaine Mahlangu]

Firstly I would think it is the books popularity . How a book gets sold out quick still counts. Also it is its constant relevance and its ability to relate with someone from the 1900s to our 2000s. For instance Animal farm. Its political point if view is still currently what we see around us and for me that's prophetic enough to be known as a classic

[Daniel__Smith]

A book is said to be a classic if it resonates across different time periods and cultures. Classics also tend to provoke thought and discussion, reflecting significant ideas or artistic achievements.

[Nati Jiniya]

I think it's not only about the age. On one hand, a book has to be read by many people, and survive the time trial, but on the other hand, I think some can also be considered potential classics just depending on an author's writing style and genre.