Would Lord Byron, Mary Shelley, and Percy Shelley Fit into Today's World as Influencers?

Today, at a time when influencer culture thrives and social media platforms dominate our lives, the question arises: how well would the likes of Lord Byron, Mary Shelley, and Percy Shelley adapt to contemporary society? The answer lies in exploring the unique dynamics of their lives and works, as well as the changing nature of public opinion and societal norms.

1. Trying to Be Influencers

It is intriguing to speculate that Lord Byron, Mary Shelley, and Percy Shelley would all be trying to be influencers in today's world. Social media offers a platform for them to share their thoughts, creations, and experiences, allowing them to reach a wider audience and engage with modern-day readers. However, their methods of communication and the types of content they would produce would be vastly different from their original works.

1.1. Historical Novels and Memoirs

Lord Byron, known for his long-form poetry and romantic narratives, would likely focus on historical fiction and memoirs. His passion for storytelling and desire to be remembered could drive his pursuit of creating compelling narratives that would resonate with today's readers. On the other hand, Mary Shelley, the author of Frankenstein, would venture into more historical and feminist-themed novels. Her visionary fiction and focus on social issues would make her a valuable voice in contemporary literature.

1.2. Modern Content

Percy Shelley, a poet and philosopher, would probably write more contemporary historical fiction. His philosophical ideas and critiques of society could be explored through modern historical contexts, resonating with readers who are interested in thought-provoking narratives. Their works would delve into current events, cultural trends, and societal issues, providing fresh perspectives on timeless themes.

2. Adaptation to Modern Audiences

While their works would be more focused on historical fiction, the modern audience's interests would shape the reception of their content. Today, people are more likely to engage with shorter, snappier content on social media. Long-form poetry and supernatural fiction would no longer be the primary mediums. Instead, historical and thematic novels, combined with cultural commentary, would capture the attention of today's readers.

2.1. Platform and Format

Similar to how the romantic poets utilized the Romantic Era's literary journals, Byron, Shelley, and Mary would need to adapt to today's digital platforms. They might use Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok to share snippets of their work, engage with fans, and promote their content. Their existing works could be repurposed for podcasts, hyperlinks, and interactive experiences that leverage the affordances of modern technology.

2.2. Public Opinion and Creativity

Their ability to be deemed geniuses today depends on the changing perceptions of creativity and public opinion. In their time, great men and women were often seen as almost superhuman, their work considered sublime. However, modern society does not deify politicians and generals as much as they did in the early 19th century. Nevertheless, their talents and contributions would still be recognized, albeit in different ways.

3. Influence and Legacy

Despite the shift in how they would be received, the influence of Lord Byron, Mary Shelley, and Percy Shelley would still be significant. Their works, although reimagined for today's audience, would continue to provoke thought and inspire new generation of writers.

3.1. Societal Impact

Their works, which often critiqued social norms and challenged the status quo, would continue to resonate with contemporary readers. For example, Mary Shelley's exploration of scientific ethics and the supernatural would align with today's discussions on artificial intelligence and environmental issues. Percy Shelley's philosophical writings could inspire debates on political and environmental activism.

3.2. Contemporary Relevance

Byron's poetry and cultural commentary, once seen as romantic and escapist, would be reinterpreted through the lens of modern society. His idealistic views on life and society would be seen as both reflective of past aspirational ideals and relevant to today's social justice movements. Their works, adapted to modern sensibilities, would continue to offer insights into the human experience.

4. Conclusion

In conclusion, while Lord Byron, Mary Shelley, and Percy Shelley would have to adapt their content to fit today's influencer and media landscape, their unique voices would still have a strong impact. By leveraging modern technology and social media, they could continue to challenge and inspire readers in new ways, bridging the gap between past and present in the ever-evolving world of literature and culture.