Literariness

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. The quality of being literary includes the aesthetic, thematic, and stylistic elements present in a written work
2. The characteristic of a written piece relating to its literary qualities encompasses aspects such as style, theme, and imaginative expression
3. This trait involves the inherent literary elements found within a text, highlighting aspects like aesthetics, themes, and distinct styles

Etymology: The term "literariness" encapsulates a concept that has intrigued scholars of literature and linguistics alike, particularly in the 20th century. It refers to the quality that makes a work distinctly "literary," distinguishing it from other forms of writing or discourse. This concept gained prominence through the work of Russian Formalists, particularly in the writings of Viktor Shklovsky, who sought to analyze the characteristics that define literature as an art form. Shklovsky's exploration of "literariness" was a reaction against the traditional approaches to literary criticism that prioritized content over form. In terms of its linguistic lineage, "literariness" is derived from the root word "literary," which itself originates from the Latin "literarius," meaning "pertaining to letters." This Latin term is linked to "littera," which means "letter" in the sense of characters used in writing. The English adaptation of "literary" emerged in the late 14th century, as it began to describe things related to literature or the arts of writing. The suffix "-ness," added to form "literariness," is an Old English construct that transforms adjectives into nouns, indicating a state or quality. Thus, the term effectively embodies the essence of what makes something literary, elevating it to a subject of analysis and appreciation. The recorded use of "literariness" in English can be traced back to the mid-20th century, when it began to appear in academic discussions about literature. It has since become a crucial term in literary theory, helping to navigate the fine line between literature and other forms of written expression. The evolution of its meaning reflects broader shifts in literary criticism, moving from a focus on narrative content to an appreciation of form, style, and the unique characteristics that establish a text as "literary." As literary studies have continued to evolve, "literariness" remains a vital concept, serving as a lens through which the complexities of literary texts can be examined. It invites readers and critics alike to consider not just what a text conveys, but how it conveys that meaning—an engagement that underscores the artistry of literature.

Synonyms: literary quality, literary nature, artistry, style, craft

Antonyms: literalness, prosaicness, unimaginativeness, banality, mundanity