Final answer:
Contemporary authors utilize insights from historical thinkers and classical literature to delve into the human condition, and use characters' experiences to pose universal philosophical questions that continue to resonate in modern times.
Step-by-step explanation:
Contemporary authors often refer to a variety of sources to explore knowledge about the human condition. Historical philosophers, sages, religious thinkers, and themes present in classical literature provide them with timeless insights into human nature and philosophical queries. In literature, characters and their predicaments stimulate discussions around real-life issues, prompting readers to reflect on personal experiences and ethical dilemmas. The enduring questions and conflicts that have persisted throughout history continue to influence contemporary literature, adding depth and universality to modern texts.
Furthermore, the irrational aspects of the human condition, such as the psychology behind choices, especially in the aftermath of events like World War I, have led to a focus on the fallibility of human progress and authority. This skepticism has enriched contemporary intellectual history and philosophy, with literature often serving as a medium to examine these themes. Novels, short stories, and poetry are seen as interconnected with larger philosophical discourses, uniquely positioned to explore and reflect complex ideas about existence, society, and individuality.