Makings of Literature

You wouldn't think writing would be so difficult...you have a thought, you put it on paper, and viola! In reality, though, the amount of work that goes into writing a literary work is astounding. There's so many different elements that have to be present to make the work stand out, make it real and touching. Studying literary elements the past couple of weeks has shown me just how much goes into writing. It's really not as simple as I thought, and I have been an avid albeit amateur writer for years. Basic plot and grammar skills are only part of what a story needs. The characterization has to be detailed and vivid, the imagery has to be strong and sharp, the setting needs to be appropriate for the events. In the case of literature, it really is the millions of details that paint the entire picture (kinda like Vermeer's paintings in Girl With the Pearl Earring). Studying the literary elements involved rather than just accepting them really made me have a greater appreciation for what I read. I don't think I'll start dissecting everything I read, judging their use of the elements simply because while that might enhance my understanding, I think it would take away the pure, simple pleasure I feel when I read. Without a doubt, though, studying the elements and knowing what to look for will have a small part in how I receive a literary work. I think it's important to appreciate the technical aspect of writing without losing sight of what the author is trying to do by implementing all of the elements...touch you. If a person gets too bogged down in the requirements and regulations of writing, then we lose the ability to just close out the world and be swept away by it.