How to Complete Keynote Instructions
Keynotes are a double-entry note taking system. It helps one to read critically and encourages
reading comprehension. It is a place to record and explore ideas using writing as a tool for
learning. All of our keynotes will have a designated focus (diction/details/tone/etc.). The right
column is where you will answer the above questions (and more) in regards to our designated
focus.
Directions:
1.) Draw one line down the left-hand side of your paper.
2.) The left column is used for recording focal points. These will be given to you in class.
3.) The column on the right is for embedding useful quotes to examine and analyze the
different focal points that can be found in texts. This column should not be divided by
quote and analysis, but the goal is to introduce the idea or claim and to prove or support
yourself with the proper quote(s). You must continually ask yourself:
a. Why is this passage important?
b. What is the author communicating? How?
c. How does this affect the overall novel/story?
d. What other literary devices or focal points does it connect to or affect?
In The Catcher in the Rye, Salinger depicts Holden’s confusing
PARADOXICAL
CHARACTERIZATION: adolescence in a series of paradoxical statements about his character.
Holden states “I’m quite illiterate, but I read a lot” in order to convey
Holden Caulfield
his interest in reading but lack of understanding in what he reads.
Holden’s doesn’t quite understand how to develop in the way he
believes is necessary, which Salinger mirrors for the transition that all
people must figure out to become successful, well-rounded adults.
SYMBOLISM/MOTIF:
Willy Loman
Miller uses the motif of fertile life to represent the livelihood and legacy
that a man lives with and leaves behind. Linda, Willy’s wife, was
attempting to grow vegetables throughout their lifetime together but all
they managed to raise were two sons who grew into full-grown failures.
Willy frustratingly states “Nothing’s planted. I don’t have a thing in the
ground” (121). Willy feels manhood requires a man to leave something
or someone behind to be remembered for and to be missed by. Miller
uses the down-and-out antihero as a social criticism of the postdepression family. To be successful one needs to be able to “grow”
plants and people; to be a failure one leaves nothing planted.