In the realms of literature and literary criticism, there is a common debate whether works of literature should aspire to transcend the time/place in which they were created (and thus become timeless works of art) or whether literature (and art in general) should respond to the circumstances of the world in which they were created. Those of the first view would argue that works of art that tie themselves to contemporary politics or ideologies cannot fulfill the classical ideals of “timeless” art, while those of the second view would argue that avoiding contemporary political touchstones is, in and of itself, a political/ideological choice–just one that hides its perspective through tacit endorsement of the status quo.
What is your opinion on the desirability of the intersection between contemporary political and ideological struggles and works of art or literature? Feel free to draw upon prior experiences with art and literature as evidence to support your stance; however, you should use specific evidence from Parable of the Sower by Octavia E. Butler’s as the primary example for your argument. Be sure to: take a clear stance, where you position yourself on one side of the spectrum of thought or the other (although it does not have to be an absolutist position), account for potential counter-arguments, and to provide evidence for both your position and for your interpretation of how your source text (the book that you read) relates to this argument.
Be sure to include specific quotes or paraphrases from the text as evidence, citing your quotes using both author and page number.
