Living Like Weasels
Close Reading
Directions: Answer the following questions in complete sentences using the essay for evidence (on
separate paper). Cite textual evidence whenever necessary (use line #s for endnotes).
1. A writer’s style may include the use of sound devices such as alliteration (repeating
consonant sounds at the beginning of words) and consonance (repeating consonants within
words). Reread lines 19-21 and identify Dillard’s use of alliteration and consonance and
describe their effect on the text’s overall meaning.
2. Another stylistic technique Dillard uses is juxtaposition—placing two contrasting images near
each other to highlight the contrast between them. Reread lines 32-49 to identify instances of
juxtaposition and explain how the images suggest a contrast between broader ideas.
3. Hyperbole is an intentional exaggeration that writers use for emphasis or effect. Reread lines
67-75 and identify examples of hyperbole and describe the overall effect.
4. Writers often use rhetorical questions that are meant to require contemplation rather than an
answer. Reread lines 84-93 and identify the rhetorical questions and describe their effect.
5. Another part of a writer’s style is tone. Some writers prefer to use an informal tone, as if the
writer and reader are carrying on a casual conversation. Reread lines 123-129 and describe
Dillard’s tone in this paragraph and throughout the essay.
6. Dillard also uses alliteration and consonance in lines 123-129. Identify the use of alliteration
and consonance and explain the ideas these sound devices help emphasize.
Living Like Weasels
Close Reading
Directions: Answer the following questions in complete sentences using the essay for evidence (on
separate paper). Cite textual evidence whenever necessary (use line #s for endnotes).
1. A writer’s style may include the use of sound devices such as alliteration (repeating
consonant sounds at the beginning of words) and consonance (repeating consonants within
words). Reread lines 19-21 and identify Dillard’s use of alliteration and consonance and
describe their effect on the text’s overall meaning.
2. Another stylistic technique Dillard uses is juxtaposition—placing two contrasting images near
each other to highlight the contrast between them. Reread lines 32-49 to identify instances of
juxtaposition and explain how the images suggest a contrast between broader ideas.
3. Hyperbole is an intentional exaggeration that writers use for emphasis or effect. Reread lines
67-75 and identify examples of hyperbole and describe the overall effect.
4. Writers often use rhetorical questions that are meant to require contemplation rather than an
answer. Reread lines 84-93 and identify the rhetorical questions and describe their effect.
5. Another part of a writer’s style is tone. Some writers prefer to use an informal tone, as if the
writer and reader are carrying on a casual conversation. Reread lines 123-129 and describe
Dillard’s tone in this paragraph and throughout the essay.
6. Dillard also uses alliteration and consonance in lines 123-129. Identify the use of alliteration
and consonance and explain the ideas these sound devices help emphasize.