The Genius of Mormon literature

Can we truly lock down the concept of what “Mormon” literature should consist of? I believe it is true that pending the style, genre, format and purpose behind the writing our perception of the Mormon culture and doctrinal concepts can be heavily influenced. 

In a marvelous speech given by Orson F. Whiney titled “Home Literature” he taught this principle as he encouraged members of the church to become involved with sharing the gospel through literature. 

“Experience has taught me that it is the heart. not simply the head, we must appeal to, if we wish to stir the soul. The intellect may shine, but it is the bosom that burns, and warms into life every movement that is born to bless humanity. l, therefore, speak to your hearts, and I would rather say three words by the power of the Holy Ghost than lecture here for three hours on the fables of Greece and Rome.” 

Mormon literary pioneer, author Nephi Anderson gives his attempt to provide a look into the gospel through his 1898 novel “Added Upon”.  The foundation of this novel is based up the church doctrine regarding the Plan of Salvation. This doctrine is already criticized and questioned due to differences from main stream christian beliefs. 

From the pre-earth life experience to the millennium and exaltation, we can see how the lives of the characters are impacted and blessed through the simple blessings of the gospel. While the doctrine at times in inaccurate, for those that know little of the mormon faith they can at the very least feel the joy and happiness that come from the knowledge of our heavenly fathers plan and how his timing is what matters. We just have to go forth in faith. 

Whitney reminds us that “Above all things, we must be original. The Holy Ghost is the genius of "Mormon" literature.” despite misleading doctrines taught in the novel, Anderson has captured a portion of the genius and allowed us to feel the blessings of the fathers plan through “Added Upon”