Many pieces of literature can be classified as subversive.
Subversive literature has been a stye of writing that has attracted writers throughout history. This style of literature is appealing to many writers who are looking to make a difference in society. Subversive literature comes in a variety of formats, from poetry to novels to educational essays to public speeches.
Rebellion Against Someone or Something
The definition of subversion is given by Merriam-Webster as "a systematic attempt to overthrow or undermine a government or political system by persons working secretly from within." This definition calls attention to the most prevalent characteristic of subversive literature. Subversive literature is characteristically used to rebel against someone or something, such as the government, persons in authority or parental figures in children's literature. Subversive literature can also be used to go against common moral theories, such as gay rights issues or opinions on underage alcohol consumption.
Often Controversial
Because subversive literature is often used to go against the opinions and rules of those people who are in position of authority, the literature is often controversial. An author of subversive literature strives to get people talking about the piece he has written by moving away from common and traditional ways of thinking. Subversive literature may cause anger and unrest, especially from people in authority or from those people who share the views and sentiments of the authority figures.
Devaluing Authority
Subversive literature does not only challenge the views of those in authority, it also often uses malicious language to attack the authority figures and devalue them. This means that the literature actually tries to make people think that the authority figures are not important and that their opinions are of little significance. The literature may devalue authority by making fun of it or belittling it, which often stirs up a lot of controversy and emotion.
Emotional
Subversive literature is often extremely emotional because the author usually has very strong feelings about the information he is presenting. Although subversive literature often tries to make fun of authority figures, the literature may also try to appeal to the emotional side of its readers. Subversive literature often tells emotional stories that are used to make people feel bad or help people relate to the cause it is trying to sell to the general public.
