Existentialism is a philosophical and literary movement that grapples with the very nature of our existence. Authors like Dostoevsky, Sartre and Camus challenge readers to find personal meaning amidst life's absurdities. Existential literature is often critical of social institutions and features characters who struggle to understand their purpose in life. It exploded as a literary movement during the Second World War. It's emphasis on individual freedom continued to influence late 20th century writers like Beat poet Jack Kerouac and Sci-fi master Philip K. Dick. Existential literature continues to resonate with modern audiences.