CLOSE READING: 40. Close Read the Quotation

40. Close Read the Quotation: (poetry or prose analysis paper)

close reading is analysis of the language of the quotation with particular attention to specific word choice. Quoting from the block quotation in analysis facilitates close reading-staying close to the specific use of language in a text.

You will learn through Writing Principles #'s 41-48 how to address specific language and how literary devices ranging from figurative language, imagery, connotations, tone shifts to sound devices effect the meaning of the text.

For example, in a formalist close reading of the John Keats poem “Bright Star,” this writer focuses upon the word “steadfast”:

In the beginning of the poem “Bright Star!” the speaker contemplates the idea of permanence. It is helpful to pay attention to how the speaker wants to be like the stars in that they are both permanent and panoptic. Expressing this desire, Keats writes in his poem, “Bright Star,” “Bright star, would I were steadfast as thou art—“ (line 1). This is the opening line of the poem. Putting great thought into his choice of words, Keats describes the stars as “steadfast," meaning constant, immutable, and permanent. Keats word choice in “steadfast” develops the speaker’s desire to achieve immortality which is precisely the speaker’s initial desire.

“CLOSE READING STARTERS” TO USE:

(X is a literary device)

(“ “ indicates a quote from the quote)

-The specific use of “ “ in this passage is significant because ____________________________________________________.

-By stating “ “ the author / character means __________________________________________________.

-Looking closely at the X in the excerpt “ “ reveals that _____________________________________________.

-The X in the line “ “ develops the theme ______________________________ because _____________________.