Contents: Writing about literature The elements of fiction. Reading the story Plot and structure Characterization Theme Point of view Symbol, allegory, and fantasy Humor and irony Evaluating fiction Three featured writers : D.H. Lawrence, Flannery O'Connor, Joyce Carol Oates Stories for further reading The elements of poetry. What is poetry? Reading the poem Denotation and connotation Imagery Figurative language 1 : simile, metaphor, personification, apostrophe, metonymy Figurative language 2 : symbol, allegory Figurative language 3 : paradox, overstatement, understatement, irony Allusion Meaning and idea Tone Musical devices Rhythm and meter Sound and meaning Pattern Evaluating poetry 1 : sentimental, rhetorical, didactic verse Evaluating poetry 2 : poetic excellence Poems for further reading The elements of drama. The nature of drama Realistic and nonrealistic drama Tragedy and comedy Plays for further reading