ANALYTICAL ESSAY
This paper should be an analytical interpretation of any work of art produced by any artist discussed in class EXCEPT FOR those particular works of art which we have already covered extensively. (For example, because we discussed this particular sculpture in some detail, a paper on Michelangelo’s David will not be acceptable. If you aren’t sure, be sure to ask before you start your paper.) Works by artists not discussed in class are possible but MUST be cleared with me first. You should discuss both textual and contextual elements of the work. Please ask if you are not sure about anything in this paragraph to avoid losing points.
You want to write an analytical interpretation including discussing both textual and contextual aspects of the work.
You are going to take a work of art and ascribe meaning to it; you are going to decide what it means to you at the beginning of your paper, and then write an opening statement that backs that up.
First, look over the applicable file (Film Basics, Painting Analysis, etc.) and your class notes before attending a performance or looking at the work of art. Spend about two hours, whether a painting, sculpture, film, play, etc., and take notes.
What are notes? Anything you notice. Anything that sticks out to you, and, after looking at your notes and file, some things should stick out more than others.
Then look through your notes, pick about 8 – 10 that you think are the most important, then write your opening statement. For example, when I watched the Shining, I felt that it was full of hidden meaning, that the filmmakers were trying to communicate something other than just the basic plot of the film, something about….
Unlike other papers, this doesn’t have to be, and I’d prefer if it isn’t, very worked out in your head when you start it. It should essentially document your engagement with the work.
After glancing through your notes, write your opening statement, either essentially your first impression of the work, or, if it’s a work you’ve seen before, your current impression. State a thesis, but leave the initial thesis open. The colors of Monet’s water lilies led me to a feeling of calm that made me want to learn more about the painting.
Then, very simply describe what you noted, don’t just summarize it, try to really describe what it made you think, how it made you feel, etc. Think about elements and principles of composition.
Then, the hard part, interpret that description.
For example, a description: The bright yellow areas led my eye around the work in a circular pattern.
Then, interpretation: I feel or I think that the artist is doing what with this? Answer this question: What did this particular aspect of the work do for me? What does it mean for me? Why did it leap out at me? When you’re not sure what something might mean, do a little research, but don’t just repeat others’ ideas.
So you start with a description, and then move towards interpretation.
Check out the writing lab in LI 208 if you are concerned about your compositional skills, which will be a small part of your grade.
Then, description, interpretation, and so on until you get to your closing statement.
The trick is, while you’re writing your paper, to continue to engage with the work. Continue to question the work and continue developing or possibly changing your thesis. Apply the concepts and ideas we have discussed in class.
At the end of the paper, you should draw an adjusted conclusion that does not just restate your original thesis, it can be an enhancement of your original statement, or it might even have changed entirely, and you’ll have come to a different conclusion. DO NOT JUST REPEAT YOURSELF.
VERY IMPORTANT, In your conclusion, answer this question: What does this work tell me about my values, my culture, what I hold to be important? Something should have taken place during your engagement with the work that tells you something about yourself. Again, the trick is to keep questioning or engaging with the work of art.
