Literary Analysis Paper – The Sense of an Ending

Topic: For this paper, consider how memory affects Tony’s assessment of past events and his relationships, especially to Adrian. Consider how Tony’s assessments change over the course of the novella as you perform your analysis. Requirements: you’ll draft and revise a 4-page analysis, demonstrating a thorough, critical understanding of the chosen primary source (the novel or short stories chosen from the required reading), and making good use of a minimum of 4 good secondary sources (history, biography, literary criticism—other texts which help you understand and respond to the primary source). Develop a thesis: “X says ….. Y adds/disagrees/finds….. In this paper I will argue that….. which is important because….” Your paper will be an explanation of your thesis, based on analysis of the primary source (your chosen novel) and secondary sources; the main rhetorical purpose of your essay is to argue, to persuade your reader that your analysis is valid and interesting. For every main and supporting claim you make about a work, you must have evidence–you should be able to paraphrase/quote from/refer to specific passages in both the primary and secondary sources. DON’T quote long passages–only quote enough to support or demonstrate the point you’re making. Don’t summarize or describe what happens–focus on HOW and WHY. Cite everything. Include a list of Works Cited or References (MLA or APA) including your primary and secondary sources. The author is able to synthesize information from the sources, making use of it to develop and support their own original ideas on a topic and argue convincingly for those ideas. The author has a clear and effective thesis statement, identifying the topic and their position on the issue. The introductory paragraph(s) give an overview of the topic, including background and definitions. The author demonstrates an understanding of the source materials and the complexity of the issue. The opposition point of view is treated fairly and thoroughly. The author’s argument is developed with an effective and convincing blend of reason and evidence (logos), authority and credibility (ethos), and, where appropriate, emotion (pathos). Each paragraph has a clear topic, relevant supporting evidence, and thorough explanation. Sources are grammatically and logically integrated into the argument. The author synthesizes sources and does not merely summarize them. There are few to no errors of grammar, punctuation, or usage.