In Thomas C. Foster's How to Read Literature Like a Professor, I really appreciated the section about intertextuality. Intertextuality is the connection shared between literary works and texts. Before reading this section, I thought I had been developing this skill long enough therefore, this section of the book would be more irrelevant than not. However, that was false. Intertextuality goes beyond the simple comparison and contrast of novels. Understanding intertextuality and how to use it in analysis of literature is a very useful skill to have, and one that is steadily developed over time through practice, extensive reading, and knowing what one should be looking for. While this isn't crucial to enjoy a work of literature, it nonetheless allows for a deeper understanding of how complex and rich a story can be.
"A Temporary Matter" (Tone=>Theme)
In Jhumpa Lahiri's "A Temporary Matter," I believe the overall tones in which it is written consists of a rather mellow, casual tone that gives off a genuine feel. The tone in which Lahiri writes this short story goes hand-in-hand with the prevalent theme: The importance of communication within a marriage is vital and secrets can lead to grief. However, it is interesting because she uses the times before and after Shoba's pregnancy to highlight the changes in tones that ultimately mirror the change in Shoba and Shukumar's marriage. The tone while describing the happy days before her pregnancy is hopeful and carefree as the young couple holds dinner parties and look towards the future. However, after Shoba's pregnancy, the tone of her and Shukumar's interactions becomes rather weighed down and indifferent. Finally, the tone during the couple's nightly confessions turns emotional and passionate as they reveal their deepest secrets to each other. Thr...
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