How to Do Commentary in an Essay: When Penguins Learn to Fly
Writing a commentary in an essay is an art that requires a blend of analysis, insight, and creativity. It’s not just about summarizing the text or stating the obvious; it’s about diving deep into the layers of meaning, exploring the nuances, and presenting a unique perspective. Whether you’re analyzing a literary work, a historical event, or a scientific study, commentary is your chance to shine as a critical thinker. Here’s how you can master the art of commentary in your essays.
1. Understand the Purpose of Commentary
Commentary is not a summary. While summaries restate what the text says, commentary explains why it matters. It answers questions like:
- What is the author trying to convey?
- How does this idea connect to the broader context?
- Why is this point significant or controversial?
For example, if you’re analyzing a novel, don’t just say, “The protagonist is sad.” Instead, explore why the protagonist’s sadness is important to the story’s themes or how it reflects the author’s worldview.
2. Use Evidence to Support Your Claims
Every piece of commentary should be grounded in evidence from the text. This could be a direct quote, a specific example, or a reference to a key event. For instance:
- Weak: “The character is ambitious.”
- Strong: “The character’s ambition is evident when they say, ‘I will stop at nothing to achieve my goals,’ which highlights their relentless drive and foreshadows their eventual downfall.”
Evidence gives your commentary credibility and shows that your analysis is rooted in the text.
3. Analyze, Don’t Just Describe
The heart of commentary is analysis. Go beyond describing what happens and explore the how and why. For example:
- Descriptive: “The setting is a dark forest.”
- Analytical: “The dark forest symbolizes the protagonist’s inner turmoil and the unknown challenges they must face, creating a sense of foreboding that permeates the narrative.”
Ask yourself: What does this detail reveal about the characters, themes, or author’s intent?
4. Connect to Broader Themes
Great commentary ties specific details to larger ideas. If you’re writing about a historical event, connect it to its impact on society or its relevance today. In literature, link characters’ actions to universal themes like love, power, or identity. For example:
- “The protagonist’s betrayal of their friend not only drives the plot forward but also raises questions about the nature of loyalty and the lengths people will go to for personal gain.”
This approach shows that you understand the text’s deeper significance.
5. Consider Multiple Perspectives
A strong commentary doesn’t just present one viewpoint; it considers alternative interpretations. For instance:
- “While some readers might view the protagonist’s actions as selfish, others could argue that they were motivated by a desire to protect their family, highlighting the complexity of human morality.”
This demonstrates critical thinking and makes your analysis more nuanced.
6. Use Clear and Concise Language
Commentary should be insightful but not overly complicated. Avoid jargon or overly complex sentences that might confuse your reader. Instead, aim for clarity and precision. For example:
- Confusing: “The utilization of metaphorical language by the author serves to elucidate the multifaceted nature of the protagonist’s existential quandary.”
- Clear: “The author uses metaphors to explore the protagonist’s inner conflict and the complexity of their choices.”
7. Structure Your Commentary Effectively
Organize your commentary logically. Start with a clear topic sentence that introduces your point, provide evidence, and then analyze it. For example:
- Topic Sentence: “The author uses imagery to create a sense of isolation.”
- Evidence: “For instance, the description of the ‘empty, echoing streets’ emphasizes the protagonist’s loneliness.”
- Analysis: “This imagery not only reflects the character’s emotional state but also mirrors the societal alienation they experience.”
This structure keeps your commentary focused and easy to follow.
8. Engage with the Text
Commentary is your opportunity to have a dialogue with the text. Ask questions, challenge assumptions, and explore contradictions. For example:
- “Why does the author choose to end the story on an ambiguous note? Is it to leave room for interpretation, or to underscore the uncertainty of life?”
This engagement shows that you’re thinking critically about the material.
9. Revise and Refine
Like any part of an essay, commentary benefits from revision. Read your commentary aloud to check for clarity and flow. Make sure each sentence adds value and supports your overall argument. Don’t be afraid to cut or rewrite sections that feel weak or repetitive.
10. Practice, Practice, Practice
The more you write commentary, the better you’ll get. Try analyzing different types of texts—poems, articles, films—to develop your skills. Over time, you’ll find your voice and learn how to craft commentary that’s both insightful and engaging.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How long should commentary be in an essay? A: Commentary should make up the bulk of your essay, with each point supported by analysis. Aim for at least 2-3 sentences of commentary for every piece of evidence.
Q: Can I include my personal opinion in commentary? A: Yes, but make sure your opinion is supported by evidence from the text. Avoid making unsupported claims or straying too far from the material.
Q: How do I avoid summarizing instead of analyzing? A: Focus on the why and how rather than the what. Ask yourself what the text is trying to achieve and how it does so.
Q: What if I don’t understand the text well enough to write commentary? A: Take time to reread and annotate the text. Look for patterns, symbols, and recurring themes that can guide your analysis.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to write commentary that is insightful, well-supported, and engaging. Remember, commentary is your chance to showcase your understanding and interpretation of the text—so dive in and make it count!