http://www.ck12.org Chapter 6. Writing about Literature: Analyzing Prose
Repetition is another powerful rhetorical device. When you read, you should always keep your eyes open for repeated
words and phrases. This can be tricky, as sometimes the repeated words appear close together and other times they
are spread out in a text as a motif. For instance, in F. Scott Fitzgerald’sThe Great Gatsby,a green light is mentioned
repeatedly; however, these references are spread throughout the text, never appearing more than once or twice per
chapter. Therefore, you will need to keep your eyes open for repetition while reading a story. If you see a word or
phrase appear more than once, make a note of it–it is likely that the author included the repetition intentionally.
Imagery
Imagery is language that makes an appeal to the senses. It can apply to any of the five senses or a combination of
multiple senses. Although imagery often comes in phrases or complete sentences, a word can evoke the senses. Here
are some examples.
TABLE6.3:
Touch The dog’s fur was smooth and silky, as though it had
just been brushed.
Smell The delicious scent of freshly-baked cookies wafted out
of the window.
Taste Dinner was mouthwatering! We ate buttery rolls, and a
savory chicken dish with a side of rich gravy.
Sound 1st Street was a cacophony of car horns, people on cell
phones, and police sirens.
Sight The apple was a deep red, like the sky moments before
the sun comes up.Every time you find imagery in a text, it brings up a set of connotations. For instance, the scent of freshly-baked
cookies might bring up connotations of childhood, comfort, or home. When you see a particularly striking image
in a text, think of what it denotes to you. Ask yourself, “Why describethisthing in detail instead of describing
something else?” An author often uses imagery to call attention to a particular idea, character, setting, or plot point.
Imagery can also be used to create the mood of a text. For instance, a story that includes a great deal of rain imagery
might have a very dark, dreary mood.
Vocabulary
Prose
Writing without rhyme or meter. Prose writing is usually grouped into paragraphs.Denotation
The literal meaning of a word.Connotation
The meanings a reader associates with a word based on the reader’s own background and experiences.Metaphor
Language comparing two things by saying they are the same.Simile
Language comparing two things using the words “like” or “as.”Repetition
The reoccurrence of words or phrases throughout a text.