The Nobel Prize in Literature is awarded to an author (poet, novelist, essayist, or even songwriter) who has produced “in the field of literature the most outstanding work in an ideal direction,” according to Alfred Nobel’s will.
A. Elton John
Profession: Singer, composer, and pianist.
Nobel Prize: Never awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature.
Why Not? While a celebrated musician, his work is not typically considered literature in the Nobel context. Also, he does not write most of his lyrics (Bernie Taupin does).
✅ Not a correct choice.
B. Rabindranath Tagore
Profession: Poet, songwriter, playwright, and philosopher.
Nobel Prize: Yes, awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1913.
Why? He was recognized for his profoundly sensitive, fresh, and beautiful verse, including his song lyrics, such as those in Gitanjali. He is considered a songwriter-poet, especially in Bengali literature.
✅ Correct choice.
C. Bob Dylan
Profession: Singer-songwriter.
Nobel Prize: Yes, awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature in 2016.
Why? Honored “for having created new poetic expressions within the great American song tradition.”
✅ Correct choice.
D. Bob Marley
Profession: Singer-songwriter, reggae musician.
Nobel Prize: Never awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature.
Why Not? While an influential cultural figure, he was not recognized by the Nobel Committee.
✅ Not a correct choice.
Year-wise PYQs
