Meaning: The quote "First literature came to refer only to itself, the literary theory" by Mason Cooley provides an insightful perspective on the evolution of literature and literary theory. Mason Cooley, an American aphorist known for his concise and thought-provoking observations, raises important questions about the relationship between literature and literary theory.

Literature, as a form of artistic expression and communication, has a rich and complex history that spans across cultures and time periods. It encompasses a wide range of written works, including novels, poetry, plays, essays, and more, that reflect the human experience, emotions, and ideas. Literary theory, on the other hand, is a discipline that seeks to analyze and understand the underlying principles and methods of literature, examining its structure, themes, and cultural significance.

Cooley's quote suggests that there has been a shift in the focus of literature, where it has come to refer only to itself, thereby emphasizing the importance of literary theory in shaping our understanding and interpretation of literary works. This viewpoint raises several compelling questions about the relationship between literature and literary theory. Has literature become self-referential, turning inward to explore its own nature and theoretical underpinnings? How has this impacted the way we read, analyze, and appreciate literary works?

One interpretation of Cooley's quote is that literature has become increasingly self-aware and self-referential, leading to a greater emphasis on the study of literary theory. This shift may be attributed to the growing recognition of the complex interplay between a work of literature and the theoretical frameworks that inform our understanding of it. As literature evolves and diversifies, so too does the need for robust theoretical approaches to interpret and make sense of its various forms and styles.

Literary theory, as Cooley implies, has become a lens through which we view and engage with literature. It offers a toolkit of critical methods and concepts that enable us to explore the intricacies of literary texts, from structural analysis to socio-political interpretations. By turning inward and focusing on literary theory, literature invites us to delve deeper into the underlying principles and ideas that shape the way we perceive and interpret written works.

Moreover, Cooley's quote may also signal a shift in the autonomy and self-referential nature of literature, suggesting that it has acquired a level of self-awareness that prompts us to consider not only the content of literary works but also the theoretical frameworks that inform their creation and reception. This self-referential quality of literature invites us to engage in a dialogue between the literary text and the theoretical perspectives that enrich our understanding of it.

In conclusion, Mason Cooley's quote "First literature came to refer only to itself, the literary theory" offers a thought-provoking reflection on the evolving relationship between literature and literary theory. It prompts us to consider the ways in which literature has turned inward to engage with its own theoretical underpinnings, highlighting the importance of critical theory in shaping our understanding and appreciation of literary works. This quote encourages us to explore the dynamic interplay between literature and literary theory, and to recognize the invaluable role that theoretical frameworks play in enriching our experience of literature.