Introduction
In the first paragraph, identify the essay's title and author. The opening paragraph must provide a broad but accurate synopsis of the selected essay as well as a clearly defined thesis statement. The literary analysis essay thesis statement should identify the one or two nonfiction forms to discuss in the body paragraphs and how the form(s) affect(s) the piece.
When writing about literature, refer to actions and events in the present tense. For example, instead of writing The main character wanted to go to Bolivia, write The main character wants to go to Bolivia.
Body Paragraphs
If writing about one nonfiction form, each body paragraph should provide an in-depth analysis of closely related examples of that form. If choosing two nonfiction forms, present a balanced exploration of both forms (e.g., two paragraphs of approximately the same length for each form). As for supporting evidence, provide appropriate and sufficient direct quotations, paraphrases, and/or summaries, properly cited. Finally, when mentioning a secondary character or related plot point that is not mentioned in the opening paragraph synopsis, this character or plot point should be explained briefly.
Full Answer Section
Jackson begins the story by describing the setting in detail. She describes the small town where the story takes place, the people who live there, and the annual lottery that they hold. Jackson's descriptions are so detailed that the reader feels like they are actually there, in the town, witnessing the events of the story unfold.
Jackson also uses the news reportage form to create suspense. She does this by withholding information from the reader. For example, she does not reveal the purpose of the lottery until the very end of the story. This keeps the reader guessing and makes them want to keep reading to find out what happens.
The news reportage form also helps to make the ending of the story more shocking and unexpected. When the reader learns the true purpose of the lottery, they are shocked and horrified. Jackson's use of the news reportage form makes the ending more believable and realistic, which makes it even more shocking.
Body Paragraph 2:
In addition to the news reportage form, Jackson also uses the nonfiction form of the eyewitness account in "The Lottery." This form allows Jackson to tell the story from the perspective of a villager who is witnessing the events unfold.
The eyewitness narrator is a neutral observer. They do not express their own opinions or feelings about the lottery. This neutrality makes the story more believable and realistic. It also makes the ending of the story more shocking, because the reader is not warned about what is going to happen.
Jackson's use of the eyewitness account form also allows her to create a sense of immediacy. The reader feels like they are actually there, witnessing the lottery firsthand. This immediacy makes the story more suspenseful and engaging.
Conclusion:
Shirley Jackson's short story "The Lottery" is a classic example of how nonfiction forms can be used to create fiction. Jackson's use of the news reportage and eyewitness account forms creates a sense of realism, suspense, and immediacy, which ultimately leads to the shocking and unexpected ending.
Additional Notes
- When writing about literature, it is important to refer to actions and events in the present tense. This is because literature is timeless. The events of a story may have happened in the past, but they are still happening for the reader as they read the story.
- It is also important to provide evidence to support your claims when writing literary analysis essays. This evidence can come from the text itself, or from secondary sources such as scholarly articles or books. When quoting from the text, be sure to cite your source properly.
- Finally, it is important to be clear and concise in your writing. Avoid using jargon or overly complicated language. Instead, focus on using simple, direct language to communicate your ideas.
Sample Answer
Title: "The Lottery" by Shirley Jackson Author: Shirley Jackson Thesis statement: The short story "The Lottery" by Shirley Jackson uses the nonfiction form of news reportage to create a sense of realism and suspense, which ultimately leads to the shocking and unexpected ending.
Body Paragraph 1:
Shirley Jackson's short story "The Lottery" is a classic example of the nonfiction form of news reportage. Jackson uses this form to create a sense of realism and suspense, which ultimately leads to the shocking and unexpected ending.