Reading and Writing about Literature
The basics of Annotation
Why do we read literature? Literature reflects not only the mind of the
author but also the larger world and the ways
in which people interact with that world and
with one another.
Even though usually fictional, we nevertheless
learn about real life.
Literature can indirectly affect our actions and
shape our world.
Why do we write about literature?
Real-world usefulness By forcing us to organize our thoughts and
state clearly what we think, writing an essay helps us to clarify what we know and believe.
Writing gives US a chance to affect the thinking of others.
AND, we actually learn as we write by making new discoveries and connections during the process of writing.
The Role of Good Reading Good reading is the first step toward
successful writing. Good readers know to SLOW DOWN. Good readers recognize that the best reading
is often rereading. Good reading is “active reading” or “critical
reading.” Good reading is “thoughtful consideration” of
a text.
“Hidden Meaning” in Literature
Authors are NOT trying to trick us!
Not like digging for buried treasure, but more like a systematic intellectual process.
Authors use “the human experience” just like real-life lessons.
Annotating, Note taking & Journals.
Recap: Active Readers slow down and reread.
Active readers also read with a pen or pencil in
hand in order to annotate and take notes.
There is no right or wrong way to annotate a
text as long as you’re thinking critically.
Annotating takes practice! You’ll develop your
own style the more you practice.
Suggestions for Annotations
Underline, circle, or otherwise highlight
passages that strike you as particularly
important.
Make notes in the margins as to WHY certain
points strike you. (Helps you remember!)
Ask questions of the text. (Later you can try
answering them.)
Suggestions for Annotations
Talk back to the text! (Suspicious, offensive, just
plain wrong?)
Look for unusual features of language; authors
rely on devices and style in order to create
meaning. Look for patterns of images, repeated words or
phrases, funny grammar or punctuation, and devices.
Develop your own system of shorthand. Be
creative, but be consistent.
Note-taking/Reading Journals Summarizing chapters of novels.
Try answering some of the questions you
asked of the text; look for multiple answers.
Reflect on any connections you make
between a piece of literature and your own
life and ideas.
Use the dictionary; not all words are definable
from context alone.
Works Cited
Gardner, Janet E. Writing about Literature: A Portable Guide. Boston: Bedford/St. Martin’s, 2004. Print.
