Writing about literature is
also covered in great detail in your textbook Literature and the Writing
Process on pages 53 to 139 (Don't panic, you're not to read it all in one
setting.)Reading Assignment 2
Writing about literature is
also covered in great detail in your textbook Literature and the Writing
Process on pages 53 to 139 (Don't panic, you're not to read it all in one
setting.)
This section begins with a short essay entitled "How do I Read Short Fiction?" which provides a wonderful introduction to reading for understanding and reading critically. (Or try this online link)
The topics covered include: structure, imagery and symbolism, point of view, setting, and theme. Sample student essays are included.
In addition, a number of these sections are paired with short stories to assist your understanding. These are wonderful works and I strongly suggest that you take the time to carefully read these sample works (They can also be found online. See below for instructions) :
Everyday Use by Alice Walker (p. 61 - 66)
The Lottery by Shirley Jackson (p. 74 - 79)
Haircut by Ring Lardner (p. 97 - 103)
The Storm by Kate Chopin (p. 108 - 111)
Good Country People by Flannery O'Connor (p. 118 - 131)
As it is expected that you will read these, don't be surprised to see questions referring to elements of these stories show up in future essay questions. For instance such a question might read: "Both Everyday Use and The Storm deal with individuals who appear to turn their back on the traditional view of the sanctity of family. Using examples from the stories, defend or argue against either Dee or Calixta's actions toward their families."
I strongly suggest you read these chapters in conjunction with the web pages that follow. As you may have noticed I have also tracked down online versions of all the stories as well, so you can just click on the link to read the stories if you so choose.