Introduction: A smorgasbord for literature lovers in search of more age-just futures

The introduction to the Palgrave Handbook of Literature and Aging asserts that the study of aging in relation to literature is continually evolving, always in discussion with other disciplines, and avidly exploring new approaches that stand on "the shoulders of giants. " As the editors, we provide an overview of the handbook as well as previews of each chapter in its four sections: Intersections and Intersectionalities, Traveling Concepts, Methodological Innovations, and Archival Inquiries. This arrangement acknowledges that many age-studies scholars focus on contemporary texts, which dominate the first three sections. However, the final section shows the burgeoning interest in the field from literary scholars across historical periods. We emphasize that the aim of this volume is to both take stock of the impressive work that has been done and explore exciting new avenues for established and emerging scholars in the field of literary age studies. We choose to consciously push the boundaries of how literature and literary studies are defined. The handbook encompasses not only analyses of traditional literary artifacts, but also explorations of distinct literary practices. As we point toward future directions, we call for approaches that increase our understanding of how literature intervenes in largely ageist societies.