American literature is a vast and varied topic, but when narrowed down to focus specifically on the literary elements of it, there are some important works that stand out. From early colonial writings to modern day novels and poetry, American literature has always been at the forefront of culture in the United States.

 The earliest examples of written work from America come from Native Americans, who passed their stories orally through generations until they were eventually recorded in writing. These oral traditions had great influence over later writers, as many authors used them for inspiration or adapted them into their own works. Authors such as Longfellow and Hawthorne drew heavily upon these tales for ideas while also adding aspects of Puritanism, which was so prevalent during this time period.

 As America expanded its borders westward during the 19th century, new types of literature emerged with different voices than those heard before. The first widely read novel by an African-American author appeared in 1853—Harriet Beecher Stowe's Uncle Tom's Cabin—which depicted slavery with vivid realism and gained immense popularity both within and outside America due to its powerful themes related to freedom and justice. During this same era came Mark Twain, whose satirical style brought humor along with criticism towards certain aspects of society, including racism, which he did not shy away from discussing openly despite possible backlash against him at the time.

 As immigration began increasing exponentially around 1880, authors started incorporating more diverse perspectives into their writing styles as well as exploring topics like race relations between white people and non-white ethnic groups living in America. This resulted in increased representation among minority groups being portrayed positively rather than negatively, paving the way for greater acceptance overall. In addition, regional dialects became prominent features throughout multiple pieces, most notably found within William Faulkner's books set primarily in Mississippi, where characters spoke distinctively unique slang words only natively understood by locals.

 During what is known today as "the Lost Generation" after World War I, numerous notable writers flourished, such as Ernest Hemingway, who wrote about war veterans struggling psychologically post conflict, along with other significant figures like F Scott Fitzgerald, who penned famous novels revolving around wealthy protagonists, often reflecting moral corruption happening amidst growing economic inequality between social classes. At the same time, poets like T S Eliot composed lines depicting despair commonly felt across the entire nation yet still managed to convey hopefulness if looked hard enough deep underneath all the tragedy encompassing everyday life back then, making his collection Prufrock one of the most highly praised literary contributions the world has ever seen up until now.

 In conclusion, American literature has evolved immensely since its beginning centuries ago, even though core values remain relatively similar throughout the ages: seeking truth regardless of personal beliefs, present momentary circumstances ultimately leading to a better understanding of ourselves and everyone else surrounding us at each step of the  journey ahead, moving forward together, collectively striving to create a brighter future, no matter how long the road may seem. The traveled path will lead home someday soon, and the final destination itself belongs to nobody. Nobody really can tell them apart; just wait patiently until the right answer finally reveals itself in its entirety. True beauty lies hidden beneath the surface waiting to be discovered, making the world we live in a much kinder place indeed. 

To Kill a Mockingbird: A Classic of American Literature.

 Harper Lee's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, To Kill a Mockingbird, is one of the most beloved books in American literature. Set in the 1930s Deep South, it tells the story of Scout Finch and her brother Jem as they learn about morality and justice through their father Atticus' defense of an innocent black man accused of rape. The book addresses issues such as racism and classism that still resonate today while also celebrating courage, compassion and understanding. It has been adapted into plays, films and even an opera, with its themes continuing to captivate readers across generations.