Read the outline for an introduction to a literary analysis paper. I. Introduction: Samuel Johnson once said, “I would rather be attacked than unnoticed. For the worst thing you can do to an author is to be silent as to his works.” A. Interpret the quotation: B. Agree or disagree: C. Thesis statement: Which statement would best fit into part A of this outline?
Answer
A
Johnson’s sentiment is true because even negative reviews can often trigger the desire in people to read a book or poem.
B
Samuel Johnson is suggesting that it is better for a work to receive a negative response than no response at all.
C
Samuel Johnson was known for his poetry as well as his essays and biographies.
D
Johnson’s poem “The Vanity of Human Wishes” was largely ignored by his contemporaries.
Explanation
Part A asks for an interpretation of Johnson’s quotation. He says he would rather be attacked than unnoticed, meaning that a negative response is preferable to receiving no response at all. Choice C restates that idea; choice A agrees with it rather than interpreting it, while B and D give background information.
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