1. The Four Layers of Analysis
1. The literal meaning:
the dictionary definition of the word or phrase that you have chosen; try to identify the writer’s technique like repetition or a metaphor.
2. The deeper meaning:
The meaning behind the literal meaning; associated meanings; the connotations; what the word or phrase “suggests” to the reader.
3. The writer’s intention:
What did the writer want his audience to understand or learn? What message did he/she want to give the reader and for what reason? When and why was he/she writing?
4. The effect on the reader/audience:
How do different readers and audiences react to the text? Why?