The concept of Exploring New Avenues is a broad topic that can be interpreted in a variety of ways. To explore a new avenue is to tread a different path, step outside the box of societal norms, and take steps towards a new tomorrow.
Literature is one of the many ways in which we can truly grasp this concept and explore new avenues of our own. Authors have the power to mold and sculpt words, leaving a permanent impression in the minds of readers. The mere action of stringing together words can single-handedly broaden a person's perspective and push them to delve deeper. In other words, literature and exploring new avenues are closely linked in many ways:
As humans evolve, so does literature, as it helps us reflect on today's society. Oftentimes, unfamiliar, controversial, "different" opinions and thoughts are written and not said, which is how literature holds the power to expand our mindsets and perspectives.
Dystopian books are generally a controversial genre of literature that portray a world with normalized extremities. For example, The Handmaid's Tale, a dystopian novel written by Margaret Atwood and published in 1985 -- this book is as much a beautiful piece of writing as it is a wake-up call or warning to society. It is a phenomenal book about what the world would look like if casual misogyny were taken to an extreme level. It pushes the reader to ponder gender inequality and the dangers of giving in to male dominance. Books like The Handmaid’s Tale not only raise awareness but also play a role in changing our reality.
Furthermore, books play a large part in shaping our identity, which goes to show the impact literature can have on a reader. By shaping our identities, literature can create diverse mindsets, provoking the exploration of different avenues. A stunning example of a book that has helped shape identities is Beautiful World Where Are You by Sally Rooney. This book, both raw and realistic, delves into personal relationships, self-realization, and debates the purpose of life.
Books can also spark creativity, which is the buildup to forging new paths and stepping outside the box. Creativity in literature is often seen in science fiction books, as they push towards limitless imagination through seemingly 'impossible' stories. How High We Go In The Dark, written by Sequoia Nagamatsu, is a science fiction novel consisting of interlinked short stories. This book starts in 2031 when a plague has taken over the world and ends in 2105. We follow multiple different characters and their coping mechanisms to this 'new normal'. From talking pigs to a euthanasia park, there is never a dull moment. While this book is impeccably creative and imaginative, it simultaneously puts this broad topic of an epidemic on such an intimate, human level. Like the title suggests, the book brings out the concept of hope and humanity amidst dark times.
Overall, literature can provoke the exploration of new avenues in a multitude of ways, from inspiring new mindsets to forming our defining qualities. Literature has had a great impact on people and will continue to do so in the future.