THE INFLUENCE OF FOLK CULTURE ON AMERICAN LITERATURE
##semicolon##
folk culture, American literature, oral traditions, storytelling, regional customs, identity.##article.abstract##
The influence of folk culture on American literature is a profound and intricate phenomenon that mirrors the nation's diverse cultural heritage. This article explores how folk traditions, oral narratives, and regional customs have shaped literary expressions from the early colonial period to contemporary works. By examining key literary figures such as Mark Twain, Zora Neale Hurston, and Langston Hughes, we highlight how elements of folklore—such as storytelling techniques, dialects, and themes of community and identity—have been woven into the fabric of American literature. Additionally, the article discusses the role of folk culture in preserving historical narratives and fostering a sense of place, illustrating how these influences contribute to a deeper understanding of the American experience. Ultimately, this exploration underscores the significance of folk culture as a vital source of inspiration and authenticity in shaping the literary landscape of the United States.
##submission.citations##
REFERENCES:
1. Twain, M. (1884). The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. Charles L. Webster And Company.
2. Hurston, Z. N. (1937). Their Eyes Were Watching God*. J.B. Lippincott Company.
3. Hughes, L. (1926). The Weary Blues. Knopf.
4. Dorson, R. M. (1972). Folklore and Folklife: An Introduction. University of Chicago Press.
5. Davis, A. Y., Smith, R. (2011). *African American Folklore: An Encyclopedia for Students. Greenwood Press.
6. Baker, H. A., Jr. (1987). Modernism and the Harlem Renaissance. University of Chicago Press.
