Ever considered why a book or any work has staying power?
A classic book is one that out-lasts time. So it not only spreads in space through word of mouth epidemic at a specific point in time, it also spreads forward into the future.
For this to happen it has some key elements that make it meaningful, regardless of the century in which it is read.
Some key things to think about:
Relevance – Classic books are highly relevant to any period. 30 years into the future, people must still understand what you were talking about. Humor or discourse that is only relevant to the period, can stop e a books from becoming a classic.
Morality – Classic books typically have a profound moral lesson. A simple one relevant to all time has the best staying power. Issues that have staying power are typically aligned with fundamental human rights – freedom, self expression, happiness etc.
Quality – Classic books are well written. They hook the reader and keep them hooked.
Credibility – Does your reader believe what you’ve written. Or in the case of fantasy of science fiction, have you succeeded in having them suspend their disbelief? A book must be well enough researched that readers do not get annoyed with implausible fact and situations.
thank you for sharing this post.
Shared this around
Interesting things you point out about the books that end up becoming classics. Everything that writers or aspiring writers need to know, thanks!
I like the idea of “becoming a classic.” What’s the trick? Practice virtue and to acquire it, read the classics. Life then imitates art through assimilation. I have some nicely warn out books.
Some books just tell wonderful stories though for quality, they may need improvement. When their stories touch the human heart, they fly. Of course, a well written one is always a treat to read.
Nice post. As I write books – I love it…
Cheers Detlev
Hello, thanks for article!
And yes it is true! i agree! Not easy write good book, which people will read forever 🙂
I guess this means there’s not much of a future for the likes of “Twilight”, then? :p
But seriously…this is certainly true for any works of high quality; literature, film, music certainly, art, architecture, you name it really. All except the morality part, that’s mostly down to storytelling. Those some opera and other musical works certainly qualify.
Excellent article. Thanks!
As always interesting article !! Enjoyed this !!!
Becoming a “classic” is doing something that is not mainstream, but is remembered by someone not yet born…
yes you are right and the article is very good
Great post, I had not thought about making your writing timeless, that is a great point
Become a classic.. love it! Makes me think of staying true to yourself and tossing aside all the garbage.
Great article! Enjoyed it!
Thanks for Sharing.
Yes, … “Classic” IS, … and as James said: “Practice virtue and to acquire it, read the classics. Life then imitates art through assimilation. I have some nicely warn out books.” … and I GodSpeed Compiled,