Meaning: This quote by Willa Cather, an American writer known for her novels depicting frontier life on the Great Plains, offers an insightful perspective on the essence of literature. Cather's words encapsulate the struggle and triumph that writers experience in their efforts to capture and convey their thoughts, emotions, and observations through the written word.

In this quote, Cather suggests that the persistent thoughts and ideas that linger in one's mind, eventually finding their way onto paper, are what constitute literature. She emphasizes the significance of these recurring thoughts that compel writers to articulate their experiences and insights. Cather's use of the phrase "teases the mind over and over for years" implies the enduring nature of the creative process, highlighting the prolonged and often arduous journey that writers undertake to articulate their ideas.

The quote also underscores the notion that the act of expressing one's thoughts through writing, regardless of the scale or significance of the work, contributes to the realm of literature. By emphasizing that the expression of ideas, whether "little or great," belongs to literature, Cather broadens the scope of what can be considered as significant literary contributions. This inclusive approach suggests that all forms of written expression, from personal reflections to grand literary works, hold value within the realm of literature.

Furthermore, Cather's assertion that the act of "putting down rightly on paper" is what solidifies a thought or idea as belonging to literature emphasizes the transformative power of the written word. This process of articulating and recording thoughts, emotions, and observations is central to the creation of literature. Cather's choice of the word "rightly" implies the importance of accurately and effectively capturing the essence of one's thoughts, emphasizing the precision and artistry involved in the act of writing.

Cather's quote also speaks to the enduring nature of literature. By acknowledging the persistent nature of the thoughts that eventually find expression on paper, she highlights the timeless quality of literature. The ideas and emotions that writers grapple with, and ultimately commit to writing, have the potential to resonate across time and space, transcending the immediate context in which they were conceived.

In summary, Willa Cather's quote provides a thought-provoking perspective on the essence of literature. It underscores the enduring nature of the creative process, the inclusive nature of literary contributions, and the transformative power of the written word. Cather's words serve as a reminder of the profound impact that the act of expressing one's thoughts and experiences through writing can have within the realm of literature.