Savannah, the historic and picturesque city of Georgia, is home to many iconic landmarks that have captured the hearts of locals and tourists alike. These landmarks have not only become a source of pride for the city, but have also served as inspiration for literature. From novels to poetry, Savannah’s landmarks have been featured in various literary works, adding depth and meaning to the stories they tell.

One of the most recognizable landmarks in Savannah is the Bonaventure Cemetery. This hauntingly beautiful cemetery has made its way into numerous literary works, including John Berendt’s best-selling novel “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil”. The cemetery’s Gothic architecture and Spanish moss-covered trees have served as a backdrop for the book’s mysterious and eccentric characters, adding to the eerie atmosphere of the story. The Bonaventure Cemetery has also been featured in poetry, with Sidney Lanier’s “The Marshes of Glynn” describing the cemetery as “the brooding Spanish-mossed trees so still the Spanish moss itself was still”.

Another iconic landmark in Savannah is the Mercer-Williams House, a grand mansion that has been the talk of the town since the 19th century. This house has not only become a popular tourist attraction, but has also been the subject of literature. In “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil”, it is the setting for the infamous “Midnight Supper”, where eccentric parties and scandals take place. The Mercer-Williams House has also been featured in a collection of short stories by Flannery O’Connor, where it is described as a place of solitude and contemplation for the characters.

Savannah’s iconic squares, with their lush greenery and beautiful statues, have also found their way into literature. The Chippewa Square, one of the city’s most visited squares, was the setting for Forrest Gump’s famous bus bench scene. This scene has become so iconic that the bench is now a permanent fixture in the square. The squares have also been featured in literature, with Janisse Ray’s book “Drifting into Darien: A Personal and Natural History of the Altamaha River” mentioning the squares and their historical significance in the city.

Aside from landmarks, Savannah’s rich history has also been a source of inspiration for literature. The city’s role in the Civil War has been a common theme in many novels, including Pat Conroy’s “Beach Music” and Robert Jordan’s “The Wheel of Time” series. These novels not only depict the physical landscape of Savannah, but also its tumultuous past and the impact it has had on its inhabitants.

In conclusion, the use of Savannah’s iconic landmarks in literature has not only added depth and meaning to the stories told, but has also brought attention to the city’s rich culture and history. These landmarks have served as inspiration for authors, allowing them to create dynamic and captivating stories that resonate with readers. As the city continues to evolve, new landmarks may emerge and become a source of inspiration for future literary works. But for now, Savannah’s iconic landmarks remain an integral part of the city’s literary landscape.