fossiilikirjandus

Fossiilikirjandus refers to literary works that are considered outdated or irrelevant in contemporary society. The term is often used in a derogatory manner to describe texts that are no longer read or studied, or that are perceived as lacking in artistic merit or thematic relevance. These works may have been popular in their time but have since fallen out of favor due to changing cultural values, literary trends, or the emergence of new forms of expression.

The concept of "fossiilikirjandus" is subjective and can vary depending on the critic, the historical period, and the cultural context. What one person considers a fossil, another might see as a valuable historical artifact or a source of insight into the past. Some literary scholars argue that even seemingly outdated works can offer valuable perspectives on historical thought, social conditions, or the evolution of literary styles.

The term is not formally recognized in literary studies but is used informally in discussions about the canon, literary history, and the reception of texts. It highlights the dynamic nature of literature and the continuous process of re-evaluation and re-interpretation that literary works undergo. The reasons for a work becoming "fossilized" can include its language, its subject matter, its narrative techniques, or its philosophical underpinnings, which may no longer resonate with modern readers.