Purpose: analyze/interpret The Ballad of the Landlord by Langston Hughes. To analyze means breaking a work apart and considering its individual elements. I was considering using symbolism and theme but open for other elements.
Your thesis is your interpretation of the work, not a summary of the work. Also, consider the poem’s historical and social context as well as the author’s background.
The introductory paragraph should provide GENERAL information about the topic or subject you are writing about. Provide background about the topic, for example, the author or title of text. Also, provide a summary of the topic or subject. The goal of the introductory paragraph is to set the scene, capture readers’ interest and get readers familiarized with what you are writing about. DO NOT PROVIDE BLOW-BY-BLOW DETAILS HERE. End the introductory paragraph with a clear and specific thesis statement.
you are encouraged to use literary criticism and cite those sources,
Note: Do not be afraid to develop unusual or creative interpretations. A safe reading of a work is likely to result in a dull essay that simply state the obvious, but an aggressive or strong reading of a work–one that challenges generally held assumptions–can lead to interesting and intellectually challenging conclusions. Even if your reading differs from established critics interpretations, you should not automatically assume your interpretation has no merit. Your own special knowledge of the material discussed in the text—a regional practice, an ethic custom and personal experience–may give you a unique perspective from which to view the work. Whatever interpretation you make, be sure that you support it with specific references to the text. If your interpretation is based on your own experiences, explain those experiences and relate them clearly to the work you are discussing. As long as you can make a reasonable case, you have the right (and perhaps the obligation) to present your ideas.
Length: 4 full pages (typed and double-spaced)
One-inch margins, 12 pt. font, Times New Roman
Cite sources using MLA format
Works cited page
