Widely regarded as one of the more demanding humanities subjects, A level Literature in English carries a reputation for being time-consuming and intellectually challenging. Yet, it's a brilliant subject for those passionate about language and storytelling. However, integrating Literature into your overall A level experience without accounting for the other subjects that you've chosen to study and future career can lead to less than ideal situations.

One of the major reasons students shy away from the humanities subjects, particularly Literature, is the stigma attached to these subjects. There's a common misconception that Literature lacks relevance to many career paths, especially compared to the 'practical' subjects like Chemistry, Mathematics, or Accounting. But contrary to this belief, Literature can be an excellent choice for those hoping to enter a variety of professional fields, particularly those who aspire to have careers in Journalism, Law, or the Social Sciences. By challenging your critical thinking, honing creative problem-solving skills, and having you manage heavy workload, Literature strengthens core skills you'll undoubtedly need in your professional life. Additionally, as the subject demands extensive external reading, it enhances your ability to grasp abstract concepts and broadens your knowledge base.

One of the most appealing aspects of A level Literature is the unique freedom it offers — the freedom to choose what you want to study. Both the AS and A2 syllabi offer a diverse range of novels, plays, and poems from various time periods, genres, and cultures. This flexibility allows you to tailor your experience to your interests; whether you're drawn to the timeless plays of Shakespeare, the complexities of modern societies portrayed in The Handmaid's Tale, or the abstract notions of metaphysical poetry, you can shape your papers to meet your needs. 

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That said, the challenges of A level Literature should not be undermined. The difficulty of an already challenging subject like Literature is heightened by the lack of support available in Bangladesh. Coaching centres rarely offer classes for Literature, and even when they do, the tuition fees are often so high that you might reconsider studying the subject altogether. This stems from the fact that Literature is notoriously difficult to self-study, as it requires you to broaden your way of thinking — something that I believe is best developed through external guidance. Coaching centres capitalise on this fact by raising their tuitions, knowing that students have limited options. However, even then, the support they provide is substandard.

But don't lose hope because the internet is filled to the brim with materials to help you grasp the content better. From in-depth analyses of books and poems to recommended readings that can enhance the quality of your answers, there are plenty of resources available online. But try not to depend wholly on the internet, because while it may seem like the perfect resource mine, it still doesn't replace a skilled teacher.

Be warned, however, A level Literature is difficult to pass, let alone excel in. It is heavily content-driven, requiring consistent effort and practice on a daily basis. So, unless you're ready and determined to put in an immense amount of hard work, Literature may not be the best subject choice for you.

That said, if you have a genuine passion for the subject and are willing to put in the necessary effort, Literature can be an incredibly enriching experience. It not only deepens your understanding of the world as a whole but also equips you with valuable skills that will serve you well in any career path you choose.

Tarannum Khondkar is a struggling student and a contributor at The Daily Star.