I will be taking the position of pro-essay and defending it. I see value in the essay we were taught to write at school. I see value in taking a position and defending it. As with Philosophy, it’s about forming a valid argument, teaching us that if you have evidence to substantiate your viewpoint, your interpretations can be considered valid. I think this links to what Graham mentioned about surprises. Higher marks were always given to those in class whose essay came up with something original, but plausible, because of their use of textual evidence and interpretation.
Literature class wasn’t about being right or wrong in the eyes of the author with what we read into the text. They were stretch from the regular essay we were expected to write in English. It was about stretching our minds and deepening our thoughts through reading. It was about imagination and creativity, and our essays were expected to surprise. Literature essays were definitely along the lines of what Graham considered a real essay to be; an attempt, for me at least.
