As you read, so must you write.
Each of the authors we have read draws from a wide range of discourse relevant to their topics. Oates and Simic (and we can say Dillard) do so explicitly. Berry and Dillard do so indirectly in drawing from a wealth of knowledge about the physical world, as well as our histories. Walker draws on her own narrative but at the same time she puts into relief, makes visible, the everyday life of an African American community. In like manner Selzer "dissects" the violence of a knife with a new poeticism. Cunningham dives into art history and advertising to assay the cultural history of a smile. That is, in their essays we might say that they are bringing together a number of discourses and modes of writing about their subjects to think through new ideas particular to their experience.
This assignment then will take for its model the practice of a "reading response." If essays are supposed to welcome us in to consider some ideas, without necessarily coming to "one and only one conclusion" (Zeiger), then they are also fecund resources for invention practices. That is, as you must read, so you must write. Here your task is to engage the material we have read or will read in the next days and to develop a line of inquiry of your own in your own essay, drawing on your own experience, narrative, knowledge, and, of course, where the essays might intersect with your chosen topic when applicable. The specific topic of your essay is up to you.
You should use the essays as touchstones, as leaping off points, and you should not feel as though you need to address or take up all of any one essay, nor should you feel as though you need to take up every essay (and you shouldn't for such a brief essay). Rather, think of our readings as a compendium of ideas, ways of thinking about or through a subject that welcome you into the discussion. You are free to use, refer, respond to, or develop your essay from any of the materials we have read. Given that the essays we have read take in a number of ideas, discourses, and modes of composition, the range of topics for this assignment is pretty broad. Do not force material into your essay; rather, bring the material we have read in where it may seem relevant in helping you think about your subject
If you are struggling with your topic you can, of course, consult with me during office hours or over email.
Requirements
- Follow MLA formatting as noted on syllabus
- 4 complete pages (minimum; it can be longer)
- Demonstrate the presence of at least some of what we have read (try not to overcrowd your essay with the essays we have read)
- Proper in-text citations following MLA formatting
- Works cited page following proper MLA formatting (does not count towards the page requirement)
Attachment:- Researched Argument.rar