Art and Literature: The Heartbeat of Nations and the Awakening of Collective Conscience
Hassan Rezaei
Art and literature are essential to nations, just like a heartbeat is essential to life. They reflect the life, emotions, and values of people and help awaken society’s shared awareness of justice, freedom, and truth. Literature and art have always played a significant role in shaping and reflecting social and political transformations. Victor Hugo, the French playwright who developed the theory of romantic drama, once remarked: “The most decisive outcome of a political revolution is a literary revolution.” He also described literature as “the mirror of a nation’s civilization.” Hugo believed that political and literary revolutions are closely intertwined, so much so that any profound political change must inevitably influence and reshape literature. For him, literature was not merely an artistic activity but a powerful social force that reflects the thoughts, emotions, values, and aspirations of a people.
A glance at history shows that poems, novels, stories, and plays have always mirrored the political and social conditions of societies. For instance, during Iran’s Constitutional Revolution, literature also underwent transformation. Many poets and writers joined the movement for freedom, using their pens as tools of cultural resistance and playing a vital role in awakening the people and shaping political and social consciousness.
In every society, art and literature have the potential to spark new awakenings and inspire movements toward liberation from stagnation. History demonstrates that they have never been fully subjugated to political power. Although governments have often attempted to restrain or control them, they have never succeeded in halting the free flow of art and literature. This resilience stems from the fact that artistic and literary works are authentic reflections of social transformations, rooted in the historical, cultural, and political experiences of the people.
Many historical examples illustrate this awakening role. Uncle Tom’s Cabin by Harriet Beecher Stowe (1850s), by depicting the harsh realities of slavery, raised public awareness and became one of the influential factors leading to the abolition of slavery and the outbreak of the American Civil War. The novel later inspired adaptations in theater and cinema. Similarly, the renowned Mexican painter Diego Rivera (1886-1957) inspired by revolutionary and labor movements, created monumental murals that not only conveyed socialist themes but also celebrated Mexico’s indigenous heritage, leaving a profound impact on society.
Throughout history, artists and writers have harnessed the power of art and literature to transmit new ideas, challenge prevailing beliefs, and, by fostering critical thinking and empathy, guide people toward awareness and change. Through visual arts, music, and literature, they have not only exposed the hardships and injustices of society but also acted as agents of reform, while preserving and passing on cultural values and experiences to future generations.
Art and literature are the heartbeat of human societies. They have the unique capacity to connect with the soul and spirit of people under any circumstances. Their lasting influence is so powerful that authoritarian regimes have always feared them, often resorting to censorship or silencing independent writers and artists. 21 August 2025.
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