The Language of Interpretation: Patterns of Discourse in Discussion of Literature

by Michael W. Smith, Peter Smagorinsky, James D. Marshall

Drawing on interviews and on the actual language that readers use to interpret and respond to literary texts, the researchers examine the conventions that shape talk about literature in large groups, small groups, and adult book clubs. The authors raise challenging questions about the usual ways of talking and thinking about literature and suggest some promising alternatives based on new theories of literary understanding.

158 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 1994

About the author

Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.

Michael W. Smith is Professor of Literacy Education, College of Education, Temple University.
- Ph.D. University of Chicago. Special Field: Curriculum and Instruction.
- M.A.T. University of Chicago. Major Emphases: English and Education
- B.A. University of Chicago. Major: English