By Thomas Sanfilip It is difficult to say, though bears repeating, that poetry holds no sway over modern culture, it has drifted into obscure corners so distant, it has become merely an artifact, an oddity, a peculiar expression that has…

By Thomas Sanfilip There is no question the diary can be adapted into other literary forms of narrative—it has been done countless times over the centuries and lent its form particularly to fiction, yet the cheap, first-person narratives that litter…

Lately, Literary Yard team has tried to pull through some of the famous titles for review. “The Midnight Library” by Matt Haig is one such that is not only a captivating novel but one that delves into themes of regret,…

The essay that follows reflects my understanding of these extraordinary stories through the lens of a literary reading, i.e., setting down the baggage that comes from reading the texts as sacred and instead engaging with them as literature, as suggested by the literary critic Harold Bloom in his “The Book of J.”

Harper Lee’s “To Kill a Mockingbird” promotes compassion to counteract racism, as illustrated by Atticus Finch’s advice to his daughter Scout. Research from Stanford and the University of Texas reinforces the importance of compassion and self-compassion for psychological and social well-being. Kindness and compassion also have contagious effects that benefit society. However, global happiness is declining, a phenomenon that can be remedied by fostering compassion, which is crucial for a content and connected society.

By: Ramlal Agarwal  Raj Kamal Jha is an IIT student and holds a Master’s from the University of Southern California. He is the chief editor at The Indian Express, the largest newspaper in India. He appeared on the literary scene in 1996 with…

Sarthak Dasgupta’s “Varanasi: A Filmmaker’s Musings Along The Ghats” is a visual journey into the heart of Varanasi. Encountered at the World Book Fair, this photobook engages with its stunning portrayal of the city’s ghats and lanes. Dasgupta’s photographs, rich with history and spirituality, act as visual poems, inviting readers to introspect and explore the depths of both Varanasi and themselves. Highly recommended for those seeking understanding and inspiration.

By: Sashie The American dream is based on a concept that anyone can obtain success, regardless of their upbringing or socio-economic status. Gatsby’s life is the epitome of the American dream. He chooses to live his life dangerously in order…

By: Thomas Sanfilip One of the more extreme challenges these days is to somehow reinvent a writer deceased over 150 years ago and still appeal to modern, literary tastes. The 19th century French poet, Charles Baudelaire, presents such a challenge, though…

By: Ramlal Agarwal Published in 1896, Hardy’s Jude the Obscure was attacked for its sexual frankness, its morbidity, and its immorality. It was rejected by the lending libraries, condemned by the church, and burned by a bishop. It hurt Hardy…