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, Print.