New Criticism Analysis of 2 Short Stories

 Writers will create a literary analysis using close reading or the detailed analysis of the complex interrelationships and ambiguities (multiple meanings) of the verbal and figurative components within a work.  Writers will analyze the meaning and the interaction of words, figures of speech, and symbols.  The emphasis is on organic unity of its overall structure with its verbal meaning. While writing this paper, focus on the features, devices, and form of the work by which such effects are achieved.  Your paper must be 3-4 pages in length (I do not mean 2 ½ pages) no less; in addition, it must include a Works Cited page.  This paper requires at least 1 credible outside source such as a peer reviewed article or a book.   

Choose 2 of the short stories below:

• “How I met My Husband” written by Frank O’Connor 
• “The Jilting of Granny Weatherall” Katherine Anne Porter
• “Everyday Use” written by Alice Walker 
• “Interpreter of Maladies” written by Jhumpa Lahiri 

While  reading be mindful of motifs or repeated symbols, imagery, words, and ideas.  It could be a good idea to find a theme within the text and form a thesis statement to support throughout the paper.  Everything is in support of the thesis.