What should literature mean to humans?

Answer 1

Literature is artistic writing. That's what it means to English speakers, all of whom (at last count) were humans. Word meanings are not normative--it does not make sense to say that "literature" should mean "the indentation on the upper lip". That fact is, it doesn't mean that.

Whether writing is indeed artistic or not is another question and one which does have a normative element. But whether the 7,000 page book I wrote by dropping a heavy book on my keyboard while my word processor was running and leaving it there overnight is literature or not does not depend on whether or not we adopt a new definition of literature, only on one's artistic standards.

Answer 2

Literature can offer a new perspective on the world, evoke emotions, inspire change, facilitate empathy, and provide an avenue for self-reflection. It can also serve as a means of preserving culture, history, and human experiences for future generations. Ultimately, literature has the power to enrich our lives and deepen our understanding of ourselves and others.

Answer 3

It gives you a new sense of life that you didn't have before you read the novel.