What is literary value

If you have to ask you'll never know desu

>>8407835

Read Shelley's A Defense of Poetry

bump because I want answers

>>8407835
The only way to find out is to read the classics. If the only thought that pops into your head when you finish the book is 'that was boring', then literature isn't for you. It was Joyce's Portrait that ultimately converted me to literature, give that a try. Essays are incredibly rewarding, but experience of literature first hand is the most effective way to develop your own literary sensibilities.

Literary value is a function of time and critical attention. Your suspicion of litcrit is unfortunately as common as mud. Let me make an analogy so you can understand. Whose opinion do you trust on where to put the door in a room that you've hired to frame: the guy who has built 80 complete houses, or his apprentice who has only worked on 4? Critical reading is a skill like framing is. Critical reading is quite a different kettle of fish from reading for entertainment. It's a whole different mindset. Trust me, I've done both extensively. Literary value derives in part from a works adaptability to changing culture and attitudes. If it is read beyond the context of it's publication in time and space (but time is more important), then its value increases.