ENG130 – Literature And Composition Unit 1 Literary Response ✓ Solved

ENG130 – Literature and Composition Unit 1 Literary Response:

This assignment focuses on your ability to identify the plot devices of a piece of literature and craft your own creative piece with similar plot devices. After reading the stories in the unit, select one story to write an analysis of the plot on. Please answer the following questions about that short story or fairy tale in one paragraph: What is the plot of the story and how clear is that plot? How does the plot influence the overall story?

Both "The Invisible String" and "Swan of the Gods" deal with the question of what connects us to other people and to the universe. Create your own work of fiction with a clear plot that focuses on the invisible or visible connections that exist in the world. The story should be no more than 500 words in length and should include a main character, a simple conflict, and some form of a resolution. Your response should be at least two paragraphs (not including the title page) and should have a properly APA formatted title page.

Your paper must be double spaced with 1-inch margins and use appropriate fonts: 11-point Calibri, 11-point Arial, or 12-point Times New Roman. Be cautious about plagiarism and include in-text citations for any direct quotes, paraphrases, or summarized information. Ensure your analysis is well organized, free of grammatical errors, and formatted according to APA style.

Paper For Above Instructions

The art of storytelling has a captivating ability to engage readers through intricate plots and emotional connections. For this analysis, I have chosen "The Invisible String" by Patrice Karst, a heartfelt tale that expresses the invisible bonds that connect people regardless of distance. The plot revolves around two children, Liza and Jeremy, who inquire about their connection to loved ones when separated. Their mother explains that they are connected by an invisible string that binds them to everyone they love. This clear and straightforward plot effectively captures the essence of love and connection, resonating well with readers young and old. The plot is lucid and deeply influences the story's themes of connection and belonging, which are among the central tenets of human experience.

The clarity of the plot in "The Invisible String" is fundamental to its emotional impact. By depicting a simple yet powerful explanation of how love transcends physical boundaries, Karst's narrative evokes feelings of warmth, comfort, and reassurance. This is particularly poignant in a world where many individuals may feel isolated or disconnected. The childlike innocence in the storytelling complements the message, making it accessible and relatable to the audience. The plot not only showcases the characters' understanding of love but also leaves the reader contemplating their connections with others, thus enhancing its overall significance.

Inspired by the themes presented in "The Invisible String," I have crafted my own short story titled "The Stars We Share." In this narrative, two characters named Aria and Leo are separated by vast distance, with Aria living in a bustling city and Leo residing in a quiet rural area. Despite this physical separation, both characters often gaze at the stars each night, feeling a profound connection through the shared night sky. The plot unfolds as Aria discovers a way to communicate their wishes under the stars, inviting Leo to make wishes too. Through their correspondence via their dreams, they cultivate their bond, exploring shared hopes, fears, and aspirations. The climax arises when both characters face a personal challenge that tests their individual resolve and the strength of their connection. Ultimately, they lean on each other, reminding themselves that they are united not only in spirit but also by the stars they admire.

The theme of connection in "The Stars We Share" mirrors the essence of Karst's narrative, demonstrating that visible and invisible ties can exist simultaneously. As Aria and Leo navigate their respective challenges, they learn that their support for each other plays a crucial role in overcoming adversity. The resolution showcases their mutual understanding; through connection, they emerge stronger and more aware of the importance of their bond. Thus, this creative piece resonates with the pivotal theme of the story: that connections—whether through tangible means or ethereal gestures—offer comfort and strength in navigating life's complexities.

In conclusion, both "The Invisible String" and "The Stars We Share" effectively illustrate the profound connections that bind us. Through clear plots and relatable characters, these narratives affirm the universal importance of connection in our lives. Engaging with literature not only allows us to recognize the intricate tapestry of human relationships but also inspires us to foster connections in our own lives, thus enriching our experiences and interactions.

References

  • Karst, P. (2000). The Invisible String. New York: Workman Publishing.
  • Anderson, S. (2020). Swan of the Gods. American Short Fiction.
  • Gullick, C. (2020). The Invisible String. American Short Fiction.
  • Muniz, H. (2019). What is the plot of a story. Prep Scholar. Retrieved from https://www.prepscholar.com
  • Grimm, J., & Grimm, W. (n.d.). Little Red Riding Hood. American Literature.com.
  • Anderson, H.C. (1845). The Little Match Girl. American Literature.com.
  • Wood, J. T. (2017). Communication in Our Lives (8th ed.). Stamford, CT: Cengage.
  • Princeton University. (2018). Active reading strategies: Remember and analyze what you read. Retrieved from https://www.princeton.edu
  • Scribbr. (2020). Significant changes in APA 7th edition. Retrieved from https://www.scribbr.com
  • American Psychological Association. (2020). Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (7th ed.). Washington, DC: APA.

Related Assignments