Tea in Literature: Famous Authors and Their Love for Tea

Owner: teatalktimesTea in Literature: Famous Authors and Their Love for Tea

The pairing of a good book and a warm cup of tea is undeniably delightful. But have you ever wondered about the deep relationship between these two activities? 

This connection is more profound than it seems. Tea has often found its place as a symbol and character in literature, deeply influencing narratives and authors alike. 

"There is a great deal of poetry and fine sentiment in a chest of tea." - Ralph Waldo Emerson

Tea has influenced literary works through its presence in creative breaks, elaborate tea ceremonies, and thematic roles, from ancient times to modern literature. 

Join us as we explore the role of tea in literature! We'll encounter beloved authors and their works, discussing how tea contributes to character development, themes, and plot progression. 

So, get cozy with your favorite tea and get ready for a literary journey that highlights the importance of your favorite brew in literature!

The Tea Connection: How Tea Became a Beloved Beverage in Literature

When we think of calming moments in literature, what image springs to mind? A soft armchair by the fireside, a well-thumbed book in hand, and a steaming cup of tea within easy reach, isn't it? So how did tea manage to weave itself so intimately into our literary journeys? 

Evolving from its origins as a medicinal brew in China, tea soon found its way into the literary worlds of the East and West. But, why is tea so beloved in literature? 

The Social Brew 

Part of tea's popularity in literature comes from its inherent social nature. Social activities like the Chinese tea ceremony or the British afternoon tea provided incredible backdrops for engaging or dramatic dialogues. Remember the gossip-filled tea scene in Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice? Such scenes lent themselves to character deep dives, plot developments, and revealing hidden dynamics. 

The Metaphorical Infusion 

Tea also became a literary symbol. Authors used tea as a metaphor for change, like the transformation of a simple leaf into a complex brew mirroring character development or plot twists. Additionally, the environment required for tea cultivation often served as a metaphor for struggle and resilience. 

The Way of Life 

For many authors, tea wasn't just a beverage; it was an art, a philosophy, even a way of life. Its nuances and rituals were used to express themes like harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility, adding depth to their works. 

Overall, tea slipped its way into literature as a universal language of comfort, culture, and connection. Its familiar, calming presence spanning cultures and eras continues to make it a beloved element in the narratives woven by literary masters.

Sip and Read: Tea as a Symbol in Classic Literature

Hey there, tea and literature lovers alike, let's have a quick journey through the pages of time and steep ourselves into the roles tea has played in classic literature. It may have been merely a hot beverage for some, but for many esteemed authors, tea carried symbolic meaning, influencing their narratives in ways we might not have realized. 

From Subtle Undertones to Bold Imagery 

A flavor of life, vigor, and often times of solace— these are some of the delicate notes that tea has infused into the narrative of many classic books. Was it the calm serenity symbolized by the warm sips of tea in Thomas Hardy's novels, or the vivid imagery of opium-infused tea in Wilkie Collins' The Moonstone? You see, each instance of tea is like a small, yet flavorful tea leaf adding depth to the narrative brew. 

Tea and the Passage of Time 

Look closely and you might find a fascinating pattern where tea is often used as an ingenious tool to signify the passage of time, a transitional element. Remember those countless times in Jane Austen's books where characters shifted from one scene to the next, all over a casual tea time? Interesting, isn't it? 

The Symbol of Class and Culture 

While it might appear as a simple hot beverage, tea often played a pivotal role in showcasing class distinctions and the cultural milieu of the setting. Cases in point include the distinct ways tea ceremonies were described in George Orwell's Burmese Days or Evelyn Waugh's Brideshead Revisited. Haven't these tea times given us some profound insights into the protagonists' social status and customs? 

So next time, when you're flipping the pages of your favorite classic and a tea scene appears, take a moment to sip its deeper meaning. Perhaps, you'll experience a new flavor enhancing your reading journey.

Tea as Inspiration: How Famous Authors Found Their Muse in a Cup

Finding inspiration often comes from the simplest of things, and for some renowned authors, that inspirational spark has ignited from a humble cup of tea. Savoring the flavor, letting the warmth seep into your hands, and sinking into the soothing aroma, all work together to create a moment of tranquility. But how exactly has this traditional beverage transformed from an everyday indulgence into a muse for literary virtuosos? Let's steep ourselves into this fascinating cup of tea. 

Tea as The Elixir of Creativity 

So, why does a good old cup of tea hold such a tremendous sway over the creative minds of these literary legends? Could there be a mystical connection that links the artistic muse to the gentle swirl of tea leaves in a cup? 

Legendary science fiction writer, Arthur C. Clarke, regarded tea as a "magic elixir" that stimulated his creativity. In his own words, he claimed, "The mere chink of cups and saucers tunes the mind to happy repose". 

And he's not alone in his fondness for tea. Acclaimed author C.S. Lewis, fondly remembered for the majestic and imaginative world of Narnia, stated that "You can't get a cup of tea large enough or a book long enough to suit me". How might your own creativity flourish with a piping hot cup of Earl Grey or a soothing chamomile infusion to keep you company?

Tea Breaks with the Greats: A Peek into the Tea Habits of Literary Legends

Care to join me for a quick tea break? As it turns out, even the legends in the world of literature had their favorite cup of tea. Let's explore the quirky, dreamy, and deeply grounded tea habits of some of history's most influential authors. 

George Orwell: A Steadfast Tea Traditionalist 

A man recognizably passionate about his tea, George Orwell penned an essay titled "A Nice Cup of Tea" in 1946. Declaring tea as one of the "mainstays of civilization," Orwell not only enjoyed his brew but also had rather firm views on how it should be made. His detailed procedure included the type of tea pot to use, the amount of tea, the order the tea and milk should meet, and even how one should drink it. 

Jane Austen: Depicting the Social Grace of Tea 

Jane Austen, a master of keen social observation, often used tea to portray the nuances of societal manners and expectations in her works. Austen herself was no stranger to the daily tea routine. Letters to her sister Cassandra often mention this beloved beverage. Can't you just picture Elizabeth Bennet and Mr Darcy sharing a tense cup of tea in Pride and Prejudice? 

C.S. Lewis: The Inveterate Tea Drinker 

Renowned for his work "The Chronicles of Narnia", C.S. Lewis was a self-confessed heavy tea-drinker. He loved it so much that he was reported to consume multiple cups a day. His love for the brew reflects in lines like, "You can never get a cup of tea large enough or a book long enough to suit me". 

Agatha Christie: The Queen of Tea-Time Mysteries 

Agatha Christie not only wrote about lavish tea times in her mystery novels, but also practiced this tradition herself. She confessed to pondering her complex plots while sipping tea. It's said that her favorite was Devonshire cream tea, often enjoyed during afternoon writing sessions. 

Sir Arthur Conan Doyle: The Tea-Infused Adventures 

Creator of literature's most famous detective, Sherlock Holmes, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle was a fervent tea drinker. This passion transferred onto his characters as well, with Holmes and Watson often found discussing their enigmatic cases over a hot cup of tea. 

From Orwell's meticulous brewing methods to Christie's pondering over plots with a cup in hand, these authors visualize their world, cultivate their creativity, and frame their narratives through their unique tea experiences.

Tea and Characters: Exploring the Role of Tea in Shaping Literary Personalities

Isn't it wonderful how a simple cup of tea can inform and often define a character's identity in literature? Grab your cup, dear reader, and join us as we dive into the splendid world of conveying personalities through tea. 

Ancient Traditions, Present Identities 

Often steeped in thousands of years of culture, the act of tea-drinking in literature often complements the characterization of those honoring ancient traditions. Ever heard of Uncle Iroh from 'Avatar: The Last Airbender'? His love for tea goes beyond addiction. It's a clear interpretation of his calm demeanor and wisdom, adding depth to his character and propelling critical plot developments in the series. 

A Brew of Quirkiness 

How about a giant dormouse forever stuck in a tea party in Lewis Carroll's 'Alice's Adventures in Wonderland'? 'Tea', in this context, becomes a signifier of whimsy and absurdity, painting vibrant and imaginative characters. 

The Nuanced Taste of Character 

The way characters drink their tea, or which one they prefer, can also become windows into their personalities and emotions. Let's take Sherlock Holmes, the master of discerning an individual's lifestyle from mere minute clues. He preferred strong black tea, perhaps an echo of his energetic mind and intense concentration required for his detective work. George Orwell's beloved characters often reflected his personal tea preferences, which serves as texture to their personality traits. 

Diffusion of Class 

Tea often 'steeps' into the background of a scene, subtly drawing out the detailed tapestry of class structure and societal norms. Reminiscent of Thomas Mann's 'Buddenbrooks' or Edith Wharton's 'The Age of Innocence,' where an innocent cup of tea often serves to reveal the character's class status or to demonstrate the social dynamics at play. 

Now, don't you agree that a cup of tea is never just a cup of tea in literature? It's a creative medium, a narrative tool that can be as multi-layered and complex as the characters it helps shape. Who knew that such a simple routine could color a story so vividly?

Tea Quotes to Savor: Words of Wisdom from Tea-Loving Authors

There's something magically transformative about tea - a humble infusion of leaves and hot water that has grown to symbolize comfort, warmth, and camaraderie around the globe. But don't take our word for it; let's traverse the annals of literature, past and present, to find wisdom distilled into impactful tea-centric quotes penned by acclaimed authors who were ardent tea lovers themselves. 

For Insight and Inspiration 

• "You can never get a cup of tea large enough or a book long enough to suit me." - C.S. Lewis Those with an insatiable thirst for knowledge (and tea) will find this quote relatable. Lewis, author of The Chronicles of Narnia series, acknowledges both tea and books as everlasting sources of enjoyment and wisdom.

• "Sometimes it is the smallest thing that saves us: the weather growing cold, a child's smile, and a cup of excellent coffee." - Kazuno Kohara Kohara highlights how simple pleasures, including a hot cup of high-quality tea, can uplift us amidst life's turbulence.

For Love and Comfort 

• "I would rather have a cup of tea than sex." - Joanne Harris This surprising revelation from the Chocolat author emphasizes the comforting and satisfying attributes of tea, hinting at its capacity to be more pleasurable than even the most intimate of human experiences.

• “While the kettle is boiling, I think over the menu. Lots of cups of tea.” – Agatha Christie Notorious for her entangling mysteries, Christie incorporates a dash of humor, demonstrating how tea is instrumental in grounding us and providing comfort.

For Reflection and Mindfulness 

• “Tea is the elixir of life.” - T'ien Yiheng This philosophical musing demonstrates the reverence for tea in Eastern culture, where it is seen not just as a beverage, but as a conduit for life-force or Qi.

• “When tea becomes ritual, it takes its place at the heart of our ability to see greatness in small things.” - Muriel Barbery Barbery, author of The Elegance of the Hedgehog, beautifully elucidates how the ritual of tea imbibes mindfulness and cherishing the small moments.

These quotes underline the timeless appeal of tea and its integral role in our lives, beautifully captured in words by some of the world's most celebrated authors. Enjoy your next cuppa with these words of wisdom gently swirling in your mind.

From Parchment to Pot: Tea's Journey from India to British Literature

Tea has a complex history ending up as a popular British hot drink and key element in literature. 

Tea was brought from China to Europe in the late 16th century by traders. Its prevalence in British culture began with the East India Company's 19th-century Indian tea plantations. 

British literature often references tea. Let's explore this journey from Indian plantations to teapots in British drawing rooms and literature. 

India: The Birthplace of British Tea Culture 

Britain’s love for tea began in India. Under the rule of the British Empire, India was exploited for various resources, among which tea was a chief crop. The British, who were initially more of coffee lovers, eventually adopted tea as their daily drink. The story of how these mass tea plantations spread across India and its impact are still evident in various Indian literature. 

Tea: A Voyage to Britain 

Once in Britain, tea became a symbol of hospitality and a means to socialize, which strongly resonated in literature. The relatively simple act of brewing and drinking tea offered authors the perfect setting for character and plot development. Remember how the Mad Hatter’s tea party in Lewis Carroll's "Alice in Wonderland" used the idea of an endless tea party to portray an entirely topsy-turvy world?

Another mention, "Pride and Prejudice" by Jane Austen, also frequently used tea as a nuanced device to express the prestige of characters, and even more, to make social commentary. 

The Warm Brew in Cold Conditions 

In British literature, tea also served as a comfort in times of distress or poor weather. Consider Charles Dickens's use of tea in his novels. A cup of strong tea often brought warmth and relief to his characters, alluding to the comforting role it played in the real Victorian society. 

A Steaming Metaphor 

Finally, tea's journey in literature wouldn’t be complete without mentioning its role as a metaphor. Tea helped authors symbolize the brewing tensions or stewing thoughts within a character’s mind, like Virginia Woolf beautifully portrayed in "Mrs. Dalloway". 

So, as we see, this humble infusion has not only traveled oceans and centuries but has also beautifully intertwined itself into the fabric of literature, all the way from oriental plantations to British drawing rooms. 

Tea Tales from Around the World: How Different Cultures Use Tea in Their Stories

As we journey across the globe, tea pops up in stories from myriad cultures, each adding their unique spice and flavor to the brewing narrative. Even beyond the shores of the notorious tea-drinking nations like China and Britain, we find tea simmering in the pages of literature. How about we take a sip and see? 

The Moroccan Mint Tea Lore 

In Moroccan literature, you’ll often stumble upon depictions of their famous mint tea, a symbol of hospitality, friendship, and tradition. In works such as Tahar Ben Jelloun's "Leaving Tangier," the act of preparing tea takes center stage as a gesture of camaraderie and respect. 

The Japanese Tea Tale 

Meanwhile, in Japan, the tea ceremony is a cultural activity steeped in Zen Buddhism. From works like Yukio Mishima's "Spring Snow," we understand the symbolic weight of tea, not just as a beverage, but as a pathway to wisdom and tranquility. 

The Indian Chai Narrative 

Sailing towards India, we’re met with the fragrant aroma of masala chai. In novels like Arundhati Roy's "God of Small Things," we sense the comfort and warmth chai brings to everyday life, reflecting the spirit of Indian familial bonds. 

The Argentine Yerba Mate Hickup 

On the other side of the world, in the literature of Argentina, we learn about their unique ritual of drinking Yerba Mate. The tea-like brew, rich in cultural significance, often surfaces in stories such as Maria Dueñas’ "Vineyard," as a communal act, fostering intimacy and friendship. 

The Russian Samovar Story 

Let's not forget Russia, where the samovar, a traditional kettle for brewing tea, becomes a prominent character. In Anton Chekov's "The Name-Day Party", and many other works, the samovar almost functions as a hearth, around which family and community converge, and stories unfurl. 

From Morocco to Japan, India to Argentina, Russia and beyond, the story of tea is multidimensional. Each cup carries a tale, each sip, a whisper of its cultural significance. Isn't it fascinating to see how a simple beverage can reveal so much about the world's cultures through its quiet but profound presence in literature?

Tea for Thought: Reflecting on the Symbolism of Tea in Poetry

As a fervent tea lover, have you ever noticed something as simple as a cup of tea holds so much symbolism, particularly in the realm of poetry? Let's delve into it! 

A Symbol of Connection 

In poetry, the act of tea drinking often serves as a symbol of connection. The sharing of tea can create a special bond between individuals, surmounting barriers of space, time, or even language. The simple exchange of warmth captured so eloquently in poems like "The Jasmine Poems" by Suheir Hammad or "Tea at the Palaz of Hoon" by Wallace Stevens, invites us to feel this sense of connection. Isn't it fascinating how the intimacy of a shared tea steeped moment can bind us together? 

A Metaphor for Life 

Catch Kay Ryan's "The Niagara River", and you'd see the power of moments, each likened to a teabag. Tea, with its process of brewing and steeping, often becomes a metaphor for patience and the passing of time in poetry. Just like each sip of tea instills warmth, each moment in life is significant, carrying the essence of our existence. Can you imagine a more perfect metaphor? 

The Elixir of Tranquility 

Tea is also painted as an elixir that bestows tranquility. Poetic works like "The Kettle is Singing" by Nicola Slee capture this essence. The very ritual of preparing tea, watching the steam rise, savoring the aroma before the first sip, all these steps are often depicted as a calming process, a retreat from the noise of the world. Don't you agree there's nothing more soothing than a hot cup of tea? 

The Paradox of Simplicity and Complexity 

Tea embodies the mix of simplicity and complexity in poems. As mentioned in Michael Longley's "The Pattern", its preparation requires a balance of factors. Like life, it's simple yet complex. 

Next time you dive into poetry or sip a tea, remember, you're experiencing more than words or a drink. It's connection, symbol of life, peace-bringer, and revealing the simplicity and complexity of existence. Worth thinking over a cup of tea.

The Secret Gardens of Tea: Exploring Tea Gardens in Literature

Imagine yourself submerged in narratives that transport you directly into mystical tea gardens. Blooming with flowers, chirping birds overhead, and laced with the sweet aroma of freshly plucked tea leaves - isn't that just an enchanting imagery? Hold that thought because you're about to dive deep into how these charming tea gardens are portrayed in different realms of literature.

Fertile grounds in fictional wonderlands 

Envision a place where fantasy meets reality, where tranquility reigns and the passion for tea blooms as lush as the tea shrubs themselves. The tea gardens in literature often serve as such magical lands. In The Magicians Nephew by C.S. Lewis, you'll find a garden with silver-apple trees believed to have the power to grant eternal youth, quite similar to the elixir-like qualities often ascribed to tea. Such descriptions of otherworldly magnificence fascinate the readers, don't they? 

Romantic rendezvous amidst tea bushes

A lot of romances in literature seem to find their steaming hot beginnings amidst verdant tea plantations. The novel The Tea Planter's Wife by Dinah Jeffries distinguishedly embraces the magnificent tea gardens' setting of Ceylon (modern-day Sri Lanka) for an unforgettable romance. The rustling leaves flirt with the breeze, spill the intoxicating fragrance of love, and the labyrinth of tea bushes serve as allies to stolen kisses and whispered promises. Is there a more beautifully romantic setting? 

Tea Gardens: A socio-political mirror 

Even as they awaken your sense of awe with their charm, the tea gardens in literature subtly reflect the socio-economic realities of tea cultivation. Words become a canvas depicting the lives of those working in these plantations, as showcased in the novel The Tea Girl of Hummingbird Lane by Lisa See. It provides a stirring exploration of the tea-growing Akha community's struggles, dreams, and resilience. Doesn't that make the tea gardens a powerful symbol of life itself? 

Gardens as the cradle of mystery and crime 

Hold on to your teacups as we plunge into thrilling narratives where tea gardens become the backdrop for mystery and crime. Think of the Kanchenjunga Tea Estate Murder by Sumit Ganguly, where the breathtaking tea estates' serene surface is disrupted by a gruesome murder. As the plot unfolds, so does the tea garden's beauty and terror, keeping you on the edge of your seat, almost spilling your tea. 

Whether it's fantasy, romance, socio-economic realities, or thrilling mysteries, tea gardens in literature are as diverse as the variety of tea leaves themselves. How about savoring another cup of tea as you immerse yourself in these lush literary landscapes?

Tea Ceremony: Discovering the Rituals and Etiquette of Tea in Literary Works

Have you ever thought about the sheer magic and mystic nature of a tea ceremony? Countless authors have beautifully enshrined the art of this ritual steeped in cultural traditions within the pages of their works. Let's dive into this literary exploration, shall we? 

The Matcha Mystery in Japanese Literature 

The Japanese tea ceremony, known as Chanoyu or Sado, is presented with a subtle, elaborate grace in various literary works. Murasaki Shikibu's The Tale of Genji, an epitome of classical Japanese literature, portrays tea ceremonies as transcendental experiences that unify the spiritual and material worlds. The novel exquisitely captures the meditative choreography and philosophical nuances entwined in the art of Chanoyu. 

Chinese Tea Ceremony: A Tale of Harmony and Peace 

China, as the birthplace of tea, introduces its intricate tea ceremony, Gongfu Cha, through literature. It's more than just about brewing tea; it's a poetic experience reflecting harmony, peace, and respect. Lu Yu's The Classic of Tea, an ancient text, meticulously details this ritual, transforming the act of drinking tea into a celestial journey of the senses. So, ready for some tea enlightenment? 

The Social Dance of British Tea Time 

The British afternoon tea, an ingrained social ritual, often serves as a fascinating literary backdrop. Be it Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, where tea times are indicative of social class and mannerisms, or Lewis Carroll's Alice in Wonderland with the whimsical Mad Hatter's tea party, the British tea tradition seizes a vital role in the narrative. Don't you think these books invite us on a delightful tea-infused journey into yesteryears? 

Russian Samovar: Tea as a Symbol of Unity 

The Russian Samovar tea ceremony symbolizes home and unity. It's mentioned in Leo Tolstoy's War and Peace and Fyodor Dostoyevsky's Brother Karamazov as a way to bring peace and unity to families. The theme of unity and resilience runs through Russian literature via these tea references. 

The tea ceremony is also present in world literature, such as during intimate moments over black tea in British narratives and in spiritual rituals in Far Eastern texts. Are you ready to join us on this global tea journey in literature? Grab a cup of tea and explore with us.

Tea and Travel: Literary Journeys Fueled by the Love for Tea

Who wouldn't agree that sipping a cup of tea while turning the pages of a good book is one of life's true pleasures? Now, imagine connecting travel into this mix - literary journeys fueled by tea. Sounds fascinating, doesn't it? 

Literature abounds with tales of travel, each one uniquely captivating and enlightening. Often, it's the small moments that remain etched in our memory the most - encounters with strangers, the flavors of a foreign land, and yes, savoring a piping hot cup of local tea. As captivating as the journeys themselves, the literary love affair with tea has often been the driving force behind many such adventures. 

The Tea Trails 

Around the World in Eighty Days by Jules Verne, for example, isn't merely an adventure around the globe, it is also a culinary journey. Phileas Fogg, the quintessential Englishman, insists on his tea even while racing against time. His cup of tea represents familiarity amidst uncertainty, a comforting routine amidst chaos. For Fogg, and in some ways for us, the readers, tea is the binder that bridges the gap between the known and unknown. 

Inspirations in a Teacup 

In Paul Theroux’s travelogues, tea signifies solace and respite from weary travels. As he ventures into unfamiliar terrains, tea serves as his connection back home. This echoes the sentiments of many a traveler - a comforting cup of tea acting as an anchor of familiarity in an otherwise novel setting. Indeed, a sip of tea can dissolve borders, acting as a common language through which we all communicate. 

Connecting Culture through Tea 

Tea plays a prominent role in many British literary narratives, from Robin Hood's Sherwood forests to the city lanes in Charles Dicken's books. It acts as a cultural link for characters and readers, prompting discussions, bonds, and journeys within the story. 

No matter the setting or the nature of characters' adventures, tea contributes to these fictional voyages. It encourages you to immerse yourself in the tale and discover literature through a tea-fueled journey. Isn't that exciting?

The Language of Tea: How Tea Expressions Enrich Writing in Literature

What language could be more enticing and captivating than the language of tea? Authors have long used tea expressions to enrich and enliven their literary works, vividly conveying a world in a teacup. The unique aroma, the taste nuances, or even the sound of a kettle singing on the stove: each of these small details can paint a vastly expressive picture in the reader's mind. 

Savoring the Metaphors 

Look at how the writers employ tea expressions as metaphors to add depth to their stories. Phrases like 'strong as a builder's brew', or 'as soothing as a cup of chamomile tea' strike a universal chord, instantly communicating an idea or feeling. How inviting is a book, when it starts with a line like "The story began to brew, much like a pot of afternoon tea"? 

Spilling the Idioms 

Consider idioms involving tea, incorporating humor, wisdom, or even a dash of cultural critique. Sayings like 'Not for all the tea in China' or 'It's not my cup of tea' do more than create an engaging conversation; they inspire contemplation about larger themes: value, personal preferences, and cultural differences.

Stirring the Adjectives 

The delicate, nuanced, robust, murky, brisk — how beautifully these descriptive words associated with tea, resonate in a literary context. An erupting conflict can become 'as heated as over-steeped black tea', an unexpected twist can be like 'a splash of cold milk in a hot tea', instantly changing the plot's temperature. 

The Lyrical Brew 

And there's a world of sensory detail involving tea that gets melodiously infused in the literature. Authors skillfully use these details to create a mood, an atmosphere, or to depict a character. A recounting of the sound of a kettle whistling, the color of the tea as it infuses, or the steam softly rising from a freshly brewed pot — all have a rhythm and a musicality, adding layers of richness to the literary work. 

So, next time you delve into a literary work, perk up at the whispering language of tea between the lines. Or maybe, for your next reading session, why not brew a warm mug of tea? It may just augment your reading pleasure, as you decrypt the coded language of the tea in the text. After all, the love for tea is not just about the beverage itself; it's an art, a philosophy, and, as we've seen, a language that has found its way into some of the most iconic literature throughout history.