==Knowledge on Sula by Toni Morrison required== Prompt for Essay on Sula (1500-1800 words) First Let’s Discuss Some Pitfalls to Avoid:
Discuss only the book itself, not the author’s life and times, or the book’s critical reception. Do not use the internet. The essay must be entirely your ideas and feelings, your voice. Remember that I’m not looking for a particular understanding, response or analysis. I want well thought-out responses that are supported by references and short quotes from the text. 1. Before Writing:
Think about your emotional and intellectual response to this work. Write it down. What specific thoughts and feelings does Morrison evoke in us? Are there conflicts of feeling? Are there conflicting values (such as independence vs. community)? What does she have to say about love, friendship, family? Write it down. Be as specific as you can.
2. When you write your essay begin by noting Morrison’s achievement in Sula. What does this story accomplish? (see #1 above.) Take about two-thirds of the first page to lay out this clearly for your reader. Save the examples for later. You should note some of the techniques by which she is able to achieve this: Characterization, Description, Tone, Plot reversals, Slang/Diction, Allusion, Repetition, etc. What motifs* does she weave throughout this short novel that make it so powerful? Be specific. You can’t cover everything; choose the ones that work especially well.
3. The rest (80%) of your essay will be showing and discussing the techniques above. Trust yourself here. Go back through the book and find those that moved you. Then convince your reader how they work and why they are so effective.
4. Give it a conclusion, not just a summary.
5. Give your essay an exciting, enticing title. Note the word count at the end of your essay. Put your name on each page; number the pages. Make the margins one and three quarters of an inch on each side. Do not justify the right margin.
