What Does It Mean?

I asked three people to define, in their own words, the terms "literature" and "civilization."  Here are their answers: 

Brooks Aldrich, pilot

"Literature: A collection of written works, both past and present, that attempt to both entice and explain the human existence."

"Civilization: Not having to hunt or gather for my food each day, and also having a hot shower whenever I want one.

Sharon Aldrich, grade school teacher/substitute teacher

"Literature is an art form.  It is meant to obtain a reaction whether it be from advertising, newsprint, social magazine, or the most recent bestseller.  It is a piece of history and a method to track social norms and changes in societal behavior.  In any form of written word, literature is an informational tool."

"Civilization encompasses morals, belief systems, habits, architecture, and behaviors of a group of people.  It includes all art forms and languages within that group of people.  Civilization develops its own sense of government and laws by which acceptable behaviors are created.

Emily Woodmansee, student

"Literature is just like something written that lasts for a long time that can be written for a specific audience in a specific genre."

"Civilization is like a group of humans and their way of life in their society."