1. How To Read Like A Boss

2. 1) There is a “language of reading”
You acquire this language over years of practice
From the intro:
“[I hope to] give readers a view of what goes on when professional students of literature do their thing, a broad introduction to the codes and patterns that inform our readings (xviii).”
With practice, patience, and a bit of instruction, YOU can learn this language.
1) There is a “language of reading”

3. 2) Learn the “Grammar” of literature:
There is a set of conventions and patterns, codes and rules, that we learn to use when we are dealing with a piece of writing.
Every language has a “grammar”– a set of rules that govern usage and meaning
2) Learn the “Grammar” of literature:

4. OK. Now, there are 3 rules to read like a boss:
Memory
Symbol
Pattern
OK. Now, there are 3 rules to read like a boss:

5. Memory

6. Memory It’s probably not a coincidence.
Whenever you read a NEW work, check your memory—look for connections.
Have you met a character like this one?
Have you seen this theme before?
Does this plot remind you of…?
It’s probably not a
coincidence.
Memory

7. Symbol

8. Symbols: Things exist in and of themselves, while simultaneously representing something else.

9. R. B. s (Reading Bosses) are always asking, “Is this a metaphor
R.B.s (Reading Bosses) are always asking, “Is this a metaphor? Is that an analogy? What does this thing over here signify?”
We as readers must nurture our symbolic imagination…this will only enhance our reading.
Symbol

10. Pattern Recognition

11. Centuries of literature have taught us: life and books fall into similar patterns (tragic hero, for example)
B.R.’s learn to take in the foreground (plot, specific characters) while also seeing the pattern the detail reveals.
Other examples of pattern recognition leading to expertise: children telling stories, mechanics diagnosing engine trouble
Pattern Recognition

12. Memory
Symbol
Pattern
Wrapping it up…

13. Read like a boss.

14. How do memory, symbol, and pattern affect the reading of literature
How do memory, symbol, and pattern affect the reading of literature? How does the recognition of patterns make it easier to read complicated literature? Discuss a time when your appreciation of a literary work was enhanced by understanding symbol or pattern.
Read like a boss.