* Early English was evolving: The language itself was constantly changing, making it difficult to define a strict cutoff point for "English."
* Oral traditions predate writing: Stories, poems, and songs were likely passed down orally long before being written down.
* Early written works are fragmented: We have fragments of Anglo-Saxon poetry, but much of it is lost.
However, we can point to some significant early works:
* The Anglo-Saxon Chronicle: Begun in the late 9th century, this chronicle is a valuable source for understanding early English history and culture. It's considered one of the earliest major works of English literature.
* Beowulf: This epic poem, composed sometime between the 8th and 11th centuries, is a cornerstone of English literature. While its origins are debated, it's widely regarded as a major work of Old English poetry.
* The Exeter Book: This collection of poems and riddles dates back to the 10th century and provides insights into early English literature and religious thought.
Ultimately, the "first" literature in English is a complex question with no simple answer. But the works mentioned above are essential for understanding the evolution of English literature and its rich and diverse history.