Searching for Starfish

Before I head to the beach to find a starfish, it would help totally if I know how they look, where they might be found, and when there is likely to be one washed up onto the sand.

The same approach is necessary when a student is given an assignment to discuss literary elements in a story or other written work. What are literary elements (what defines them) and how are they likely to be used by an author?

Finding definitions is the easiest part. Happily, the SWC has handouts on literary elements (Literature) which should help anyone who is not sure what literary elements are and what purpose they serve.

Reading a story or other piece of literature closely - paying extra attention to how the author uses language - is necessary when analyzing a piece of writing. If an author repeatedly describes objects in his story as being green, that might indicate the presence of symbolism.  If not symbolism, the color green or the object may be used metaphorically.  One repeated color or the presence of an object or activity might even set the tone of the story. Context provides clues and answers at times.

Before looking for anything, it is a good idea to have in mind a way to recognize it. Students of literature who add the definitions of literary elements to their storehouses of knowledge will understand what literary elements are and how they are traditionally used. Then, they’ll know them when they see them.  

See you next time the breeze is cool, the sun is up, and the waves roll into view! ‘Til then, hang ten!