Why a National Literature Cannot Flourish in the United States of North America

"Why a National Literature Cannot Flourish in the United States of North America" by Joseph Rocchietti is a persuasive essay about American literature and its struggles during the 1800s. The author examines why America hasn't developed a strong, unique literary identity, even though its people are just as capable as their European ancestors. He claims that the problem isn't America's youth but how society doesn't value deep, meaningful literature, nor promote artistic thinkers. Rocchietti starts by disagreeing with the idea that America's lack of great writers comes from being a young country and clarifies that American culture is rooted in European traditions. To produce true national literature, he argues, Americans must appreciate and aim for excellence in writing instead of enjoying shallow, trendy works. He finds fault with the popular literature of the time, which uses jokes and sarcasm to water down important subjects, suggesting that going back to older, more serious literary standards will help grow real talent in America and establishes a wider debate about how culture, identity, and literature all connect in America.