1 : a figure of speech in which a word or phrase literally denoting one kind of object or idea is used in place of another to suggest a likeness or analogy between them (as in drowning in money); broadly : figurative language -- compare SIMILE
2 : an object, activity, or idea treated as a metaphor : SYMBOL

Develop a carefully-defined argument that shows your understanding of both the specific metaphor and wider theoretical and critical issues we have explored this semester. Support your argument with direct quotations from the texts that you explain, interpret, & analyze using the skills of close textual analysis we have been sharpening in this course.
An example of a metaphor: in Gatsby, the billboard with the eyes of Dr. TJ Eckleburg; in Langton Hughes' poem, the Waldorf Astoria, or in his essay "Negro Artist & the Racial Mountain," the tom-tom beat.

SPECIFICATIONS: 4-6 pages, typed, double-spaced, use direct quotations
STRUCTURE OF YOUR PAPER:

- Clever and informative title
- Clear introduction that begins with the topic at hand
- Concise, specific thesis statement at the end of the intro

For each paragraph:

Topic sentence that advances your argument
Specific examples that support your argument (ie: direct quotes with page numbers)
Analysis & interpretation of why the example supports your argument
Transition between ideas within and between paragraphs

- Conclusion that provides a synthesis of the argument
- Bibliography

DUE DATES: Final essay due Wednesday, April 17
Thesis paragraph due: Monday April 8