Format: Double-Spaced, MLA format (This means you must have a works cited list, and your paper must use the citation conventions presented in Week 2. Papers that do not have a works cited list, or use proper citations, will be graded down at least one full letter grade.)

Genre: A personal essay is somewhat more informal than these other genres. The thesis does not have to be as arguable, but it should still be very specific.

Assignment: Choose a novel, short-story, film, play, or poem, that greatly influenced your life. Clearly state how and why the piece you have chosen to prepare about influenced your life in the opening paragraph, preferably in a single sentence. In subsequent body paragraphs (probably 3-5 body paragraphs) discuss different elements of the piece you chose, and describe how they may have helped you connect to the piece. In a concise conclusion, describe why the piece remains important to you.

The final product will, of course, vary from student to student. But I should not see straight-up summaries of your chosen film, novel, poem, or play. While this will not be, strictly speaking, an interpretation, you should not retell the story to me. This paper is about how and why you connected to a particular piece of art. Occasional summary might be necessary, but it should serve to overall goal of the paper: tell your audience how a specific work of art shaped your life.

In certain cases I am open to you writing a paper on a painting or a piece of music that had a great influence on your life, but if you want to pursue this option you should discuss it with me via email, and do so as soon as possible. If you take this option without discussing it with me, I reserve the right to fail your paper without further comment.  

Required minimum-1 to 2 page