2022/2 Critical Reading

At the root of every book, whether fiction or nonfiction, is a central idea based on
an outline of intentions. Think of the basic structure of the book as the skeleton and the elements that make up the story (and/or the themes) as the organs that complete the body. The life that this body takes on is based on your interpretation. You may wonder why you need to dig up the skeleton at all. Is not the book's structure inherent in its outcome? Not always. You may find new interpretations if you look more closely at the core of the book. What you think is true in the outcome may change if you look closer at certain elements that make up the book.

Analyzing a book involves the ability to ask questions. Analysis does not have to lead to conclusions, it need only lead you toward a deeper examination. When it does lead to answers, however,  it makes for a more satisfying reading experience.

· When looking for answers from any text, start by asking why?

· Why did the author need to tell this story?

· Why did the author need to reveal this particular argument?

· Why did the author choose this particular way of expressing himself or herself?

After you've exhausted why, move on to who.

· Who is this author? Is this the voice of a storyteller?

· A journalist? A dreamer?

· A poet? A political activist?

· Is the author trying to be funny?

· Is he or she trying to teach me something?                                                                 

Now, move on to how.

· How did the author put together this piece of writing?

As important as it is to be involved in your own process as a reader, you must also be involved in the writer's process. To expose a book's skeleton, you need to focus your interest on finding metaphors and symbols and how they connect with the author's message(s). Even more than that, you need to be interested in the creative process itself and how the author is attempting to communicate his or her message to you.

Do not be afraid to admit there are things you don't know, and do not feel 

frustrated if you can not answer these questions immediately. After all, you're playing the part of a literary archaeologist here. You are digging to reveal more about the text to yourself. As long as you're asking questions, you are on the right track!

When you are engaged in the story, the author has done his job. He has grabbed your attention, and now it is your job to intermittently evaluate your reading experience. Start asking yourself some basic critical reading questions:

· What kinds of feelings are you having while reading this book?

· What do you think and feel about the world the author has created?

· Are you noticing a certain style of writing or the use of symbols?

· How and why is the author trying to hook you?