What does "Literature... is the union of suffering with the instinct for form" by Thomas Mann mean? help pls..

Question

We need it for school, but i really cannot understand it. Please help me. :) thanks.

Answer 1

I think the first part of this quote talks about the common theme in many works of literature, which is human suffering. I think when he says "instinct for form", he's referring to the form which means manifestation of something. (ie: manifesting the suffering into forms (stories and characters) which can be understood and empathized with by the reader.

PS:

(Thomas Mann had a quote about analyzing things. It would be funny if you answered the question about your quote with another quote from him: (lol)

"Analysis as an instrument of enlightenment and civilization is good, in so far as it shatters absurd convictions, acts as a solvent upon natural prejudices, and undermines authority; good, in other words, in that it sets free, refines, humanizes, makes slaves ripe for freedom. But it is bad, very bad, in so far as it stands in the way of action, cannot shape the vital forces, maims life at its roots. Analysis can be a very unappetizing affair, as much so as death.")