Communication Archives

Sexual Symbolism in Literature: Encoded and Explicit

Think and Grow Rich: Sexual Transmutation Demystified

What do encoded and explicit sex symbolize in literature? Why is it important to look beyond sex when reading literature? In literature, sex and sexuality are used symbolically in two different ways: encoded sex and explicit sex. Encoded sex means the author uses symbolic imagery to imply sex in a scene, but the reader never sees the sexual act take place. Explicit sex is when the author uses a sex scene to symbolize a larger theme in the story. Continue reading for more information on what sex symbolizes in literature.

Identity Capital: Having a Productive Identity Crisis

What is identity capital? Can you use your identity capital to your benefit? Identity capital is the sum of your personal resources. You can develop your identity capital by taking advantage of opportunities, especially in your twenties. Read more about identity capital and what it means for you.

Why Literature Is So Influenced By Shakespeare

Why is literature so influenced by the works of Shakespeare? What does an author have to gain by referencing Shakespeare in his work? In the literary world, Shakespeare is considered a sacred text. Authors know that Shakespeare is the most well-known writer in history, so they rely on a reader’s awareness of Shakespeare to deepen the meaning of their own work. Keep reading for more information about the influence of Shakespeare on literature.

The Curious Characteristics of the English Language

What are the characteristics of the English language that made it easier for people all over the globe to adopt and spread it? What quirks and features of English make it unique? In its development and evolution over time, the English language proved to be remarkably flexible and adaptable. These characteristics gave English a versatility that would later be a major asset as it spread to nearly all corners of the globe. Interestingly, these same characteristics of flexibility and adaptability can sometimes bedevil both native and non-native speakers of English. In this post, we’ll explore some unique and defining characteristics

The Quest Archetype: Every Trip is a Quest

What are the most common quest archetypes? What should you look out for to know if a character is on a quest? Anytime a character begins a trip, you should be on the lookout for a quest narrative. Literary quests typically consist of five elements: a quester, a place to go, a reason, challenges along the way, and the character learning about themselves. Keep reading to learn why every trip is a quest in literature.

The Power of Active Listening in Communication

What is active listening? Why is active listening important in communication? Active listening is an invaluable communication skill. In simple terms, active listening is listening to understand, not to respond. Active listening does not only help to understand the other person’s perspective but it’s also a great way to foster connection through disclosure; when you actively listen, people share more. Read about the importance of active listening in communication.

Look Out for Political Writing in Literature

Why should you familiarize yourself with an author’s background before reading their literature? Why are politics so common in writing? If you don’t familiarize yourself with the world as it was when an author wrote a book, you risk missing important political commentary. Especially in American literature, the role of an individual character is almost always politically charged. Keep reading to learn more about political writing in classic literature.

How to Avoid Decision Making Paralysis for Life

What is decision-making paralysis? How does it affect your life and choices? Decision-making paralysis is when you realize you have limited decisions in life and can’t choose what path to follow. Once you start thinking about what will get you where you want to go, you’ll find that it’s easier to make decisions. Read more about decision-making paralysis and what it means.

Why Authors Reference Literary Fairy Tales and Myths

What do fairy tales and myths signify in literature? Why would an author choose to borrow an element of an already well-known story? It’s common practice for authors to reference fairy tales and classical mythology in their literature because they are an assumed body of knowledge. Referencing well-known material allows an author to get a point across without much effort. Keep reading for more information about literary fairy tales and myths.

What Communal Meals Symbolize in Literature

Why would an author choose to write about an act as mundane as eating? What do communal meals symbolize? Eating is boring. That’s why if an author chooses to write a scene in which characters are eating, you better believe it is significant. Communal meals in literature can symbolize a number of things. Keep reading to find out what communal meals symbolize in literature.