Symbolism (Prompt Six)

It is quite surreal to classify my reading level as equivalent to English professors. This is not an attempt at humbleness, but rather a feeling of foreign accomplishment. There is an immense joy in accomplishing something, that was never of supreme interest. Until reading this novel I had never pondered over the idea that my approach to reading was any different than various other individuals; however, the descriptions Foster develops about "professional" level reading draws many similarities to my own style of reading. I believe that reading numerous texts of all genres, and noticing similarities in characters emotive and physical traits can better prepare a reader. Deep reading requires an individual to notice reoccurring situations quickly, while still being able to retain the symbolic connection. It is satisfying to detect symbolism in situations or actions. Foster states, "One of the pleasures of literary scholarship lies in encountering different and even conflicting interpretations, since the great work allows for a considerable range of possible interpretations" (112). For example, teachers are viewed as more educated because they hold knowledge that is unknown to the students. To students this creates a symbolic "barrier", which is regarded as controversial. Teachers enjoy the symbol because it creates a sense of power and control. However, the students believe that if they cross this "barrier" it is an accomplishment and makes them equals. Both sides believe in the symbol, but perceive them in different lights. This situation proves that the "deep" reading approach is much more than rereading a novel or understanding structure, it is about taking the skills used in that approach and applying them to how you view life.

Comments

  1. UnknownJuly 8, 2017 at 4:53 PM

    Your self evaluation of how you view symbolism was very unique and interesting. I had never thought about reading being on the same level as a professor but it is amazing to think that although we are all so young we can see the meaning and structure in novels that not all everyday people can. The idea of the "barrier" is what I found the most amazing, even when I finished the book I did not think of where I stood up against someone such as an english professor but your blog gave me a new perspective of the intellectual comparison of teachers and students.

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  2. UnknownJuly 16, 2017 at 1:42 PM

    I really enjoyed your post, because it reminded me of having class with Mr. Mclaughlin in middle school. That was the first class that I felt like every student had crossed that barrier and could became an equal to a teacher because he gave us room to come up with our own ideas about symbols found in literature. We were able to discuss and debate our views and ideas, and none of us were ever wrong even though we had "conflicting interpretations." Deep reading for symbolism has always been a difficult aspect of reading for me, but I agree with you that the more deep reading you do, the easier it is to find connections and similarities in characters traits.

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