What does it mean in regards to analyzing literature? Author’s Perspective What does it mean in regards to analyzing literature?

Definition = Author’s perspective is the unique viewpoint from which he or she (the author) writes. This viewpoint, or background, is shaped by the author’s heritage, traditions, experiences, attitudes, and beliefs. The culture of the time during which the audience lives also plays a large role in shaping the author’s perspective. Author’s perspective is often revealed through the subject matter, the tone/mood, and the theme of a piece of writing.

How to Analyze Author’s Perspective Research the author’s background. Find heritage, experiences, attitudes, etc. Read the piece. Understand the literary elements. Synthesize the information from your research and the literary piece.

Example of Steps Example: 1. An experience from Joaquin Miller is“he was said to have been born in a covered wagon.” Also, he was a leader, “established pony express route,” “owned a newspaper.” 2. From “Columbus” the main subject matter is Columbus. The tone toward this subject matter is positive. 3. Miller chooses Columbus and has a positive tone toward Columbus because he can relate to it and Miller respects Columbus.

Body Paragraph Example Miller’s perspective is revealed in the subject matter of the poem. He shows it when he chooses Christopher Columbus as the main subject of the poem, titled the same, “Columbus.” He chooses Columbus because he was a pioneer himself and can clearly relate to it. For example, his biography states that he, “claimed to have been born in a covered wagon pointed west” (145). Having lived the pioneering lifestyle, Miller obviously recognized the hardships and doubts that might occur during the perilous journey of a pioneer, and respected it. He also chose Columbus because Columbus is the leader of the ship, as shown when he is referred to as the “Brave Admir’l” (144). Miller was also a leader. Some evidence of this is that he “established a pony express route” and “owned a newspaper” (145). He reveals that he believes leaders are the only ones who know what to do by writing about Columbus’ successes instead of the mate’s or any of the other men on the ship. Hence, Miller fought his way through, and of course, admires Columbus for doing the same.

Now try it on your own with your author. The End. Now try it on your own with your author.