Assignment task:
The literary canon - the group of authors or works that a consensus of academics, historians and teachers recognize as worthy of study.
Not all literature excites critical interest and comment (from academics). Literary critics have usually assumed that the texts which seem to repay special attention, by many readers over a long period of time, thereby gaining the status of 'classics', do so because they are somehow intrinsically valuable. These texts then become classified as 'canonical'
Critics of this persuasion have generally stressed the importance of characteristics such as complexity, aesthetic unity, literary language, subject-matter, and canonical status.
Watch the following slam poem, Native Tongue by Micah Bournes.
YouTube Video: Native Tongue | Micah Bournes
Review - Ask Yourself Questions
- What is the thesis of Micah Bournes' personal narrative "Native Tongue?"
- How does Micah Bournes challenge notions of 'literary value' and 'the canon'?
- What specific evidence does he provide to support his main idea?
- How does he create tone through the use of diction?
Join the Discussion
On the Canon discussion board, respond to the following:
- Can you think of any reasons why the canon might be a problematic construct?
- What kinds of voices might be left out of the 'canon'?
- What specific craft moves (in writing and speaking/presenting) does Micah Bournes employ and how effective are these techniques? Add these techniques to your reading portfolio as well.
- Can you make a connection to any other texts which challenge mainstream notions of what is 'good literature' or 'good art?'