Final answer:
A primary factor that distinguishes text as literature is its lasting impact, use of literary devices, and exploration of profound themes.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to Prof. Rearick in Literature: What the Heck Do You Suppose They Mean By That?, a primary factor that distinguishes text as literature is its ability to leave a lasting impression, its use of literary devices, and the extent to which it delves into profound themes.
While some students may view the division between literature and non-literature as subjective and even arbitrary, there are criteria used in academia to make this distinction. Texts such as popular magazines and a Calculus textbook are considered "less literary" because they generally do not stand the test of time in relevance or craft.
In contrast, works like Shakespeare's Hamlet, which explore deep themes and use literary devices masterfully, are seen as exemplary of literature.
When discussing literature, it's important to recognize that many works of writing fall on a spectrum and can inspire debate about their literary merit.
What is considered Big L Literature tends to be more universally accepted as having lasting value and complexity, while 'little l literature' might include more transient or less complex texts.
In literary analysis, we examine various components such as subject, form, and word choices to understand a text's entirety better.
This type of analysis can reveal much about the human condition, the author's message, and the broader political or social ideas the work may advance. Recognizing these layers and engaging deeply with the text are crucial in separating literature from the non-literature.