44 Thematic Chapter: Reading Literature
Reading literature can be a bit more involved than reading expository writing. There isn’t always a set format for how a story is put together. However, there are some common ways of analyzing a piece of literature.
Below are a number of links to some short stories. With a partner, choose one. You will have to sign up for the Narrative Magazine, but it is free.
When you read subjectively, you follow your intuition about characters and plot points. Make a few notes as you read about how you feel. What’s the mood? What’s the tone?
After reading, with another student, compare notes.
What’s the tone of the story?
The attitude writing can take towards its subject or audience. Tone generally applies to specific sentences or paragraphs, not to the text as a whole.
What’s the mood of the story?
The general feeling the reader gets from the story.