Final answer:
The enjoyment of literature varies among individuals; some may find pleasure in all literature, while others may not. DiYanni, Aristotle, and Mill point to the joys of experiencing, imitating, and analyzing literature, potentially offering higher cognitive pleasures.
Step-by-step explanation:
The assertion by Prof. Rearick that he finds enjoyment in every literary work he encounters is subjective and cannot be universally deemed true or false. People's experiences with literature are diverse, and enjoyment is influenced by individual tastes, backgrounds, and the capacity to appreciate different forms of writing. According to Robert DiYanni, literature engages readers through experience, interpretation, and evaluation. Readers find pleasure in literature because it entertains and enlightens them, allowing for an expansion of understanding and appreciation of life.
Moreover, Aristotle emphasized that human nature finds pleasure in imitation, which is a fundamental aspect of literature as well. This joy in learning and recognizing likenesses in literature can be found in readers universally. John Stuart Mill adds another layer, distinguishing between higher and lower pleasures, implying that literature might provide a 'higher pleasure' due to its engagement of our cognitive faculties. Thus, while not everyone may inherently enjoy every piece of literature, the study of literature offers the potential for pleasure and intellectual satisfaction for many.
Furthermore, as Dr. Milligan suggests, the analytical aspect of reading can enhance the joy one finds in literature. Engaging with a text beyond a surface level reading to understand its deeper meanings can transform the reading experience. Virginia Woolf and many other authors and scholars have pondered the interaction between reader and text, which can make the act of reading a rich and rewarding experience.