Why We Read, Why We Write: Literature to Inspire Composition

Why We Read, Why We Write: Literature to Inspire Composition features works of short fiction, primarily American, that provide a firm foundation in the study of literature, as well as a complete guide to writing research papers.

Each chapter addresses an aspect of writing and highlights reading selections that serve as examples and prompts. Initially, students write on accessible topics such as character and setting. As their writing develops, they move on to explore symbolism, allegory, imagery, and descriptive language.

Later chapters use literature to explore themes and motifs, including realism, lost youth, and rites of passage. Students consider satirical writing and how literature may be viewed through different theoretical lenses. The final chapter prepares students to write formal research papers, with information on citing sample works and using secondary sources.

The second edition has been reorganized and restructured to better support student comprehension and retention in single-term courses. It also includes two new readings by Ralph Waldo Emerson and Richard Connell.

Why We Read, Why We Write includes author biographies and a comprehensive glossary of literary terms. It is suitable for courses in composition, introductory fiction, and responding to literature.

Kim M. Vanderlaan earned her Ph.D. in English at the University of Delaware. She teaches courses in American literature and composition at California University of Pennsylvania. Dr. Vanderlaan's professional writing has appeared in Journal of American Studies, The Explicator, American Literary Realism, Journal of American Culture, The Chronicle of Higher Education, Western American Literature, and Cather Studies. Dr. Vanderlaan is a member of the Modern Language Association and the National Council for Teachers of English.