As a means of arguing the conviction that the teaching of imaginative literature in composition classes may prove an invaluable tool for the survival of human dignity, the following remarks were circulated among English department members. Although the relatively intangible benefits of literature and the subtlety of its processes make it more difficult to teach, what greater service could be rendered the young student than to enlarge his sympathies and understanding of others in this dehumanized age through literature study? Good literature promotes self-awareness and the realization that material possessions are inadequate for satisfying the human spirit--truth and beauty are the humanizing factors. Literature study also stimulates the teaching of composition skills by providing examples of lively, colorful, compassionate, creative writing. Rather than an escape from life, imaginative literature is an escape into life. (JM)