“A Worn Path” by Eudora Welty

Fiction Analysis – Rough Draft

Compose an analytical essay of at least 1,200 words in which you offer an interpretation of a literary element in one of the assigned short stories. Write your analysis focusing on one of the following elements in one of the assigned stories:

• Character
• Theme
• Symbolism
• Imagery
• Setting

Brainstorm to identify the literary element that you would like to explore in the story. Choose from character, theme, symbolism, imagery, or setting. Then, develop a thesis that offers a specific interpretation of this element.  Do not do any outside research at this point. When finished, the draft should be at least 1,200 words (approximately four double-spaced pages).

Tips for the Essay

1. Open your introduction with an engaging opener, such as a question, quote from the story, or interesting idea. Then, connect to the short story and mention the title and the author. End your introduction with a thesis statement that interprets one literary element of the story (such as theme, symbolism, or characterization).
2. The body paragraphs should support your thesis. Present specific aspects of the short story that help to illustrate your points. Make sure to quote from the story and analyze specific lines that support your argument.
3. Include a strong concluding paragraph that summarizes your main points and explains the significance of the thesis.