Connotative Meaning: Looking at Figurative Language

Knowing the literal, dictionary definition is often helpful, but for close reading, the connotative meanings of words become essential for interpretation. We talked about close reading, but here's a formal definition:

close reading: carefully and analytically considering every component of a text from a variety of angles. Particular attention is paid to figurative language, as well as the form and structure of the piece.

So, we studied connotative meaning yesterday because it requires us to dump literal meaning in favor of a suggested or implied meaning that results from our cultural attitudes or emotional responses. And guess what! Figurative language requires the same approach.

When we speak figuratively, we are speaking abstractly--usually speaking in a manner that is unrealistic, yet still manages to effectively illustrate whatever point we're trying to make. Figurative language includes phrases like: "I'm so hungry, I could eat a horse," or "I told you a million times to clean your room." We understand that someone is not going to literally eat a horse. Rather, it is implied that the speaker is just starving at the moment and wants to express his despair by speaking in EXTREME terms. Same thing with the other example--speaking in extremes to convey EXTREME frustration with a lazy adolescent.

So here's that magical and spicy definition of figurative langauge you've all been waiting for:

Figurative language: Imagery, metaphors, similes, symbols that deepen our understanding of a description, event, place, or person. It is often the figurative elements in a work that subtly convey the theme or message of a work.

Stayed tuned for your activity!
____________________________________________________________

HW: Please read the Hint Fiction article (to be downloaded on my school webpage). Follow the directions on the sheet handed out in class. This is your chance to demonstrate your understanding of connotative meaning. Don't miss out on the feedback. Click here for article.