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Both works focus on meaning and purpose.
◦ Literary Response develops meaning and purpose
through a discussion of the connection between
literary elements (character, plot, setting, theme,
etc.) and meaning and purpose.
◦ Style Analysis develops meaning and purpose
through a discussion of the connection between
writer’s style (diction, details, syntax, language,
etc.) and purpose and meaning.
◦ Keep in mind …
 A discussion of elements and style will most likely
overlap in both writings.
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Option #1
◦ Do no lead with the literature.
◦ Present the theme of the essay.
◦ End with a thesis that identifies the literature, the
author, and the purpose of the paper.
◦ (Student Sample)
A sense of uneasiness in humans is
often an unavoidable part of life. Many times, this sense of
anxiety can lead to overwhelming feelings of unrest. This
human condition of concern and restlessness is presented
in a passage in the chapter “Painted Faces and Long Hair” in
the novel Lord of the Flies by William Golding.


Option #1 (Student Sample)
Man’s relationship with nature must be one of
respect. When in conflict with nature, however,
man must sometimes choose between his desire to
respect nature and his need to protect himself and
those for whom he is a guardian. In “The Rattler,”
the author conveys not only a feeling of remorse
but also a feeling of resignation.


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Option #2: (Student Sample)
The author’s techniques used in “The Rattler” convey
not only a feeling of sadness and remorse but also a sense of
the man’s acceptance of the snake’s impending death. A
human being has confronted nature, and in order for him to
survive, the snake must be killed. The reader feels sympathy
for the man’s plight and a reluctant agreement with him for
his decision.
Focus is on the text and the purpose of the essay.
◦ Reference to Author’s Techniques to develop tone.
 Specific techniques are not mentioned but can be and are sometimes
recommended.
 The author’s use of diction and point of view in “The Rattler” convey ….
◦ Summary statement
◦ Reader’s response

Option #2
◦ (Plot) Summary sentence focusing the reader on the
scene.
◦ (Analysis/Thesis) Two or more sentences that
connect the scene to meaning and clearly focus on
the purpose of the essay.

In Book 24 of The Odyssey, Odysseus is reunited with his
son, Telemachus, who is now a young man. As father and
King, Odysseus expects his son to acquiesce and to abide by
the rules he establishes. In contrast to Odysseus’
assumptions, Telemachus confronts his father as a strong
contender and a potential leader.

Find examples in the text.
◦ (Example)What words in the quote prove your
point? Always consider diction.
◦ (Analysis)What is significant about the quote?
Explain the connotation of each key word or
phrase. Consider the quote’s effect on elements
of plot, characterization or theme.

“Soon enough, father,” his gallant son
replied. “You’ll sense the courage inside
me, that I know - I’m hardly a flighty,
weak-willed boy these days.”


Thesis: In contrast to Odysseus’ assumptions, Telemachus
confronts his father as a strong contender and a potential
leader.
In this passage, Telemachus speaks with pride and
new-found confidence, proclaiming himself a man
along-side his father. “Soon enough,” Telemachus
declares, confirming his belief in himself. He wants
his father to know that he is unafraid of the suitors
and that his courage will show itself before long.
While Telemachus’ words suggest time, they do not
show hesitation; instead, they assert what will be. The
narrator affirms Telemachus’ voice as he describes
Telemachus as “gallant.” This connection to chivalry
likens Telemachus in stature to his heroic father. That
Telemachus is ready to stand as an equal to his father
is made clear to Odysseus, as well as to the reader.

Notice the similarity to the previous paragraph.
◦ Remember: it is not what you say, but HOW you say it
that guides your reader.

Through diction, Homer stresses Telemachus’ newfound confidence, proclaiming himself a man alongside his father. “Soon enough” confirms Telemachus’
belief in himself. He wants his father to know that he is
unafraid of the suitors and that his courage will show
itself before long. While Telemachus’ words suggest
time, they do not show hesitation; instead, they assert
what will be. …

By addressing the well bred women in her novel, Austen
declares her discontent with what her society wants in
women. The author presents the character Miss Bingley, who
seems to possess a “thorough knowledge of music, singing,
drawing, dancing …” all qualities that are favored by her
society; yet, Austen purposely creates Miss Bingley as a
proud, rude, and unfriendly lady. Austen does so to
demonstrate how being accomplished does not necessarily
guarantee a friendly, good character, nor does it guarantee a
husband, as evidenced by the fact that Mr. Darcy, the man at
whom Miss Bingley has aimed her affections is clearly not
attracted to Miss Bingley, despite her noted social skills. Later
on, Austen criticizes these “accomplished” women once again
through the inconsiderate and hypocritical Lady Catherine .

Random Example:
◦ Very Weak:
 This part of the passage states a sense of brightness in
contrast to the storm that has subsided. With the sky
being lit by the stars, it gives off a light where hope and a
new beginning is shown.
◦ Much Improved:
 The brightness of the heavens is in contrast to the storm
that has subsided. The sky is lit by the stars, illuminating
the shore, offering hope and a new beginning.