1. Literature from a specific location:
* This is the most common definition. Local literature refers to works of fiction, poetry, drama, or non-fiction written by authors from a particular region, city, or town.
* It focuses on the culture, history, geography, and people of that specific area.
* Examples:
* "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn" by Mark Twain, set in pre-Civil War Missouri
* "The Catcher in the Rye" by J.D. Salinger, set in New York City
* "The Handmaid's Tale" by Margaret Atwood, set in a dystopian future in Gilead (a fictionalized version of the U.S.)
2. Literature intended for a local audience:
* This refers to works that are published and marketed specifically for people living in a particular area.
* It could be on any topic, but it often reflects local concerns, events, or interests.
* Examples:
* Local newspapers and community magazines
* Books by local authors, even if they aren't set in that place
* Plays performed by local theater groups
3. Literature that explores local themes and issues:
* This definition is a bit more nuanced. It refers to works that may not be set in a specific place, but deal with themes or issues relevant to a particular community.
* Examples:
* A novel about the struggles of a small town facing economic decline
* A play about the cultural clashes between different ethnic groups in a city
* A short story about the challenges of living in a rural area
Important points to remember:
* The lines between these definitions can sometimes be blurry.
* The term "local literature" can be subjective and open to interpretation.
* There is no single, definitive definition that everyone agrees on.
Ultimately, the best way to understand "local literature" is to consider the specific context in which it is used.