Regionalism Defined

Regionalism determines a particular area, or region in which a writer is typically subject to. An author who often writes about Mississippi or the beach, is generally from this region; hence the term "Regionalism." Regionalism does not only reflect these particular areas in which the pieces are about, they describe factual or fictitious characters who inhabit these areas (Anderson, et al). With these characters, a more connected appeal is aroused (Anderson, et al). With this ability to closely relate the characters and setting in a story, an author can successfully obtain one's approval of the particular literary piece. This is yet another similar writing style with that of Realism. Because of this, more factual material can be adequately displayed within the piece.

Upon much recognition, an author who places factual characters among his or her's effective setting, can ultimately obtain a sufficient amount of success in relation to Regionalism. This is due to the local appeal that is retained through various Regionalism pieces. Authors such as William Faulkner, John Steinbeck, and Owen Wister are common examples of this literary usage (Anderson, et al). Although this can be effective in obtaining a supportive audience, one may be stifled by an author's inability to further expand on his or her genre. In an article by Abby Werlock, Regionalism is defined as "a literary subgenre that emphasizes the setting, history, speech, dialect, and customs of a particular geographical locale or area, not only for local color, but also for development of universal themes through the use of the local and particular" (Werlock). This is an adequate definition of the meaning and overall intention of Regionalism. Being a factual writing style, Werlock is sure to bring about the topic of expanding the "universal themes" among a region-generated piece (Werlock). This is due to an authors overall ability to further elaborate on the setting, expanding on the "universal theme." Among many characteristics in Regionalism, its manifest intention is to effectively display the setting and its prominence in a literary piece.

Anderson, George P., Judith S. Baughman, Matthew J. Bruccoli, and Carl Rollyson, eds."regionalism." Encyclopedia of American Literature: Into the Modern: 1896–1945, vol. 3, Revised Edition. New York: Facts On File, Inc., 2008. Bloom's Literary Reference Online. Facts On File, Inc. http://www.fofweb.com/activelink2.asp?ItemID=WE54&SID=5&iPin= EAmL1330&SingleRecord=True (accessed February 15, 2011).

Werlock, Abby H. P. "regionalism." The Facts On File Companion to the American Short Story, Second Edition. New York: Facts On File, Inc., 2009. Bloom's Literary Reference Online. Facts On File, Inc. http://www.fofweb.com/activelink2.asp?ItemID=WE54&SID=5&iPin= Gamshrtsty0581&SingleRecord=True (accessed February 15, 2011).