Reading conferences help us understand and appreciate books and introduce us to new authors. The books discussed determine the themes chosen for a literary conference,. However, some themes, such as symbolism in novels and poems, the individual and society, and alienation, can lead to a deeper understanding of literature.
Individual And Society
Books focusing on the relationship between the individual and society pit people against their environment to develop character and create narrative tension and interest. In Louisa May Alcott's "Little Women," the four young protagonists, Jo, Beth, Meg and Amy, struggle against poverty and adversity in 19th century New England. Through this, they develop strength of character and learn that kindness, self belief and loyalty to friends and family are more important than material possessions.
Alienation
Modern novels and poems sometimes explore alienation and can affirm the importance of the individual, while questioning the cultural conditions of loneliness and isolation. Jack Kerouac's novel, "On The Road" explores young people's alienation amid post-war commercialism of 1950s America, while expressing empathy and solidarity with the poor and dispossessed.
Symbolism
Symbolism is a compelling theme because it enriches literature and adds to its meaning. Symbols can represent emotional states not immediately obvious to the reader. Weather, for example, is often symbolic of a character's emotional state or circumstances. Landscape is also symbolic; a spring meadow may symbolize hope and regeneration, while a bleak winter's day can represent despair and stagnation. In "The Great Gatsby," the green light on the bay near Daisy Buchanan's house symbolizes hope for the future as well as Gatsby's illusions and inner longings. The green light is a symbol that operates on many levels.
Relationships
Relationships offer numerous possibilities for literary themes, including advantages or disadvantages of marriage, the dangers of sacrifice or that some people can survive without relationships. The hero of Daniel Defoe's book, "Robinson Crusoe," becomes self-sufficient when he is stranded on a desert island.
Growing Up
Themes exploring the transition from childhood to adulthood can focus on identity, the meaning of childhood or the challenges in growing up and developing self-confidence. Louisa May Allcott's "Anne of Green Gables" explores the conflict a young orphan faces between imagination and reality when she moves to a new home in Prince Edward Island, Canada.
