One of the most important things to remember is that "classic" does not necessarily translate to "favourite" or "bestselling". Literature is instead considered classic when it has stood the test of time; and it stands the test of time when the artistic quality it expresses - be it an expression of life, truth, beauty, or anything about the universal human condition - continues to be relevant, and continues to inspire emotional responses, no matter the period in which the work was written.

Classic literature is an expression of life, truth, and beauty. It must be of high artistic quality, at least for the time in which it was written. Although different styles will come and go, a classic can be appreciated for its construction and literary art. It may not be a bestseller today due to pacing and dated language, but you can learn from it and be inspired by its prose.

Indeed, classic literature is considered as such regardless of book sales or public popularity. That said, 88 classic literature usually merits lasting recognition - from critics and other people in a position to influence such decisions - and has a universal appeal. And, while effective use of language - as well as technical excellence - is a must, not everything that is well-written or is characterised by technical achievement or critical acclaim will automatically be considered a classic. Conversely, works that have not been acknowledged or received positively by the writer's contemporaries or critics can still be considered as classics.