Pop culture, ideals, values and religion are many of the unique tools used to review writing. However, good writing possesses more than all of these factors combined and far outweighs the values of temporary popularity. Good writing is so objective that in order to meet the test of time it must possess qualities which make its worth and value to readers more than just a movement of the time. Good writing must be understandable to the masses, open to interpretation and purposeful. Although all of these concepts are vague, they are the three main principals which make up Literature.
When reviewing writings which are understandable to the masses, the first thing that comes to mind is Shakespeare. Many would say that his writing is not for the masses; however, modern movies and tales have used his plots in their re-creations. This makes the term “understandable to the masses” a generic term which is open to interpretation; which is in fact, the second idea posed to you. A good body of writing must allow the readers to review, judge and analyze for themselves. The piece can be straight forward but must have enough overall substance to be considered differently in contextual views.
Lastly, good writing must contain a purpose which results in a long term impact on the reading public. Although all books with a purpose don’t necessarily become works of art, no book without a purpose can. Good writing although entirely in the eyes of the beholder must always include the three main principals.
