10 Ways to Explore Common Themes in Literature and Life
Literary criticism would require college students to read lots of books, if not browse them. They must understand the historical events that influence such works. If you happen to be an incoming first-year student, then expect your professor to ask you (and your coursemates) to pen a compelling essay on the effects of the Industrial Revolution on both sides of the Atlantic. If that seems daunting enough, then you may be shocked upon reading another interesting topic on the Jazz Age. Is it an illusion? You don't have to answer that question at this very moment, as you must think about yourself. How about exploring common themes in literature and your own life?
It won't take you a minute to come up with several topics. If you happen to be an energetic lad, then you could suggest to your professor about what it's like to be a boy. Is it really hard (to be a boy)? You would use Thor's beer belly as an introduction. Your professor won't be satisfied with your analysis on "Avengers: Endgame", so you're thinking of Holden Caulfield. It didn't cross your mind that you would need a great guess to link Stan Lee to J.D. Salinger. On the other hand, it could take you hours. And you may make a mistake in including the memorable lads in British literature. (If you happen to be a perceptive gal, then you would be tempted to pen an essay on Marvel's progressive depiction of female characters and compare it to Jane Austen's strong-willed heroines. Someone beat you, and she happens to be a newspaper columnist.) It might be better to put aside your enthusiasm on Marvel films, and focus on your past experiences. It may be few, but you need to start somewhere.
You could put yourself into trouble if you're contemplating on universal topics like college. It should be pointless to ask yourself if you like it or not. On the other hand, it won't be trite to talk about what it’s like being an outsider (or wallflower). Make sure that you won't make any reference to Stephen Chbosky's novel. Keep it grounded, and don't be afraid to open up. After all, writing reveals something (or a lot) about you, and the greatest books would show how authors have gone to heaven and hell many times. It sounds melodramatic, but true.
Items That Will Resonate to Young and Old Alike
Coming of age. Paper writing may be an exercise on literary criticism, but it doesn't mean that you can't inject your personal experience into it. You might be lauded for your positive vibes if you want to write about your place in the world. Can you make a difference? It would be nice to use Charles Dickens's tales as a reference, as a humble background should win over anyone. Make sure that there won't be any grammatical errors and faulty sentences in your essay, though.
Identity. There's nothing wrong about discussing gratitude. As a matter of fact, many authors wrote about it. You don't have to travel to Walden Pond, if not Warner Bros. Studios in Leavesden. Reading the Harry Potter series would be enough. Think about one experience, and make a connection (to the book).
Family. Your professor may admire you for your attempts to relate to Louisa May Alcott's depiction of family life in New England (during the 19th century), but you would do fine on your own (life).
Friends (offline and online). You can write about your sibling, whom you consider your best friend. It might remind you of your favorite reality TV show, where siblings compete against other siblings. No need to make any literary references unless your professor(s) specify it.
Education. It would be silly to analyze your Ivy League obsession, if not studying a subject that you truly love. (On the other hand, you must not think twice if your professor allows you to write it.) Your professors aren't only interested on your knowledge of literary criticism and how you apply it, but also your mindset. Nothing is too conservative (or liberal).
Love. You may have the option to write an essay on "Romeo and Juliet", and your experience (or the lack of) should influence your style (and view). There's no need to be a stuck up; if it’s too silly, articulate it.
Work (or the future). If you know your aspirations, then don't hesitate to tell the world about it. If you don't, then focus on your interests. Your professor's curiosity would be piqued.
Old age. You may be too young to think about retirement, so it would be cool to talk about immortality. The matter confronted Steve Rogers from time to time until his final battle with Thanos. If your professor suggests something else, then try Gothic fiction.
Vacation. It's not about the distance, but rather a new location. It would change your perception of the world sooner or later. As Jack Kerouac puts it, the world looks more interesting if you view it from a higher place. If you have doubts, then go to the attic (or the topmost floor of the college building).
Music. You're tempted to write a few lines on the soundtrack of "Godzilla: King of the Monsters", wondering if a cheesy song (or two) could make the trailer more entertaining to the viewers. Forget about it, as you could compare classical music to literary masterpieces. There's no need to be too technical in your approach to your writing, as you must pay attention on how the melody affects you. If you still insist on writing about Godzilla, then a sentence or two may do.
Daily Questions (That Need Long Answers)
Your professor won’t forbid you to write about impeachment unless the assigned text isn’t political in nature. (Political science majors are the exceptions here.) The same thing applies to popular culture (unless your professor specifies it). There’s no template in essay writing, but it would be better if you read the most popular works. There’s a start.
