Final answer:
A character who pretends to be illiterate but who is actually a distinguished author can serve as a literary tool to explore themes of creativity, fame, and societal expectations. Their deliberate avoidance of literature in public highlights a deeper narrative that contrasts with their celebrated works, reflecting on intellectualism and the value of literature throughout history.
Step-by-step explanation:
Imagine a character in a literary piece who outwardly portrays themselves as illiterate, yet, in reality, this individual is a highly respected author. This unique character quirk serves as a facade that allows them to navigate through society undetected and unburdened by the expectations that come with literary fame. Such a character may exhibit behaviors that seem to contradict their true nature, such as avoiding reading or writing in public, or even ridiculing literature. However, these quirks might also hint at a deeper narrative, one that reflects upon the character's view on creativity, fame, and personal space.
When the character returns to their true vocation, the contrast is stark. As an acclaimed writer, their works might be heavily analyzed and discussed in academic circles, proving their impact on the literary world. An example of this sharp divide can be demonstrated by the dissonance between the presumed ignorance in public and the intellectualism evinced through their writings, much like the character Bartleby, who initially displayed extraordinary diligence but was ultimately enigmatic and detached. This discrepancy can illuminate themes about societal expectations and the value of literature.
Inspiration for such characters can be drawn from literary history, where figures like Sir Philip Sydney have defended the poet's unique contribution to society against critics. Understanding the evolution of literary appreciation, from the days of Johannes Gutenberg to present day, and the shifting literary canon, can provide a background for such a character's motivations and experiences - perhaps even serving as a critique of the superficial judgments made about literacy and intellectualism.