Here's a breakdown of key aspects:
1. Emotional Response:
* Does the piece make the reader feel happy, sad, scared, angry, hopeful, etc.?
* How does the author use words, imagery, and tone to evoke specific emotions?
2. Intellectual Engagement:
* Does the piece make the reader think about important themes or ideas?
* Does it challenge assumptions or provide new perspectives?
* How does the author use symbolism, metaphors, or allegories to convey deeper meanings?
3. Aesthetic Appreciation:
* Does the piece have a beautiful or striking style of writing?
* How does the author use language in a creative or impactful way?
4. Connection to the Reader:
* Does the piece resonate with the reader's own experiences or values?
* Does it create a sense of empathy or understanding between reader and characters?
5. Author's Purpose:
* What did the author intend to achieve with this piece of writing?
* Was it to inform, entertain, persuade, or provoke?
Examples:
* A poem that uses vivid imagery to evoke a sense of loneliness. The literary effect is the reader feeling a deep sense of sadness and isolation.
* A novel that explores the complexities of love and loss. The literary effect is the reader gaining a deeper understanding of human emotions and relationships.
* A play that uses satire to criticize social injustices. The literary effect is the reader feeling challenged to think critically about their own values and beliefs.
Analyzing Literary Effect:
To understand the literary effect of a piece of writing, consider:
* The language used: Word choice, sentence structure, figurative language (metaphors, similes, etc.)
* The structure of the piece: How the story is told, the use of plot devices, pacing, etc.
* The themes explored: The central ideas and messages the author is conveying.
By carefully analyzing these elements, you can uncover the literary effect of a piece and appreciate its impact on the reader.