An explication, sometimes called a close read, is a detailed analysis of a small section of a text, such as a paragraph of a novel, or a shorter text, such as a poem. Though traditionally applied to poetry and fiction, close reads can also be relevant to photos, songs, films, even video games. Whatever the medium, goal is always to uncover new meanings through a minute analysis.
For this assignment, you will conduct close reading of a photograph of Americans who illustrate a unique aspect of our culture.
Required:
- MLA Style
- Approximately 750 words
Due:
Fri 2.28 (Draft 1: Electronic or hard copy okay)
Fri 3.6 (Final draft)
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Below are the photos you may choose from for you close read
—write about only one. Each is labeled with its location and photographer.
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| Louisville, Kentucky | Jerm Cohen |
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| Cape Cod, Massachusetts | Randi Baird |
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| Standing Rock Indian Reservation | Camille Seaman |
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| Baton Rouge, Louisiana | Brian K. Crain |
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| Ashburn, Georgia | Charles Ommanney |
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| Oakland, California | Yalonda M. James |
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| Chicago, Illinois | Mike Kremel |
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| Portland, Oregon | Phil Chester |
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| Los Angeles, California | Martin Schoeller |
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| Asheville, North Carolina | Jabin Botsford |
