The essay question: longer form
You are being asked the meaning – not the theme, topic or subject — of Brooks’ story. The self-paced workshop in Module 3 works you through this distinction.You are to determine what the meaning (argument) is, and then to determine how she crafted FOUR elements or devices of literature to create that effect. Ultimately, you will be writing a 6 paragraph essay (min 4 full pages) that analyzes Brooks’ “Lead the Way.” You are to make an assertion/interpretation about the text’s meaning and then to demonstrate that interpretation by closely examining four textual elements, each examining one passage from the text. This is very much like your last two essays. What is the story’s meaning and how has Brooks created that meaning by using four elements together? You may combine the elements as you see fit (2 symbols, a setting and a character or four settings or a setting, a character, a symbol and a figure of speech…etc. In short, your four focus points are up to you). Whichever you choose, be sure they all come together into a unified thesis – they all must work together to prove the interpretation you assert.
For example: If you want to focus only on foreshadowing, then choose four instances you see in text. Your analysis would determine meaning in the text based on Brooks’ use of foreshadowing…. Finally, what is Brooks’ point/argument made through these specific uses of foreshadowing? Your task of bringing your individual focus points together into a unified thesis is the same whether you examine one element four times, four different elements, et