Why do we do it? - Write this down before you begin your questions.
Language analysis is imperative to providing evidence that an idea/ theory within a text exists. It is like showing your working out in Math or the observations in a science report. It is how we know an author has represented these ideas. Each language technique has a specific effect, which changes the meaning or interpretation of a text. Writing about texts without analysis showcases understanding about narrative but not understanding about text construction. In English we mark on text analysis, so missing this vital part significantly impacts your marks. If you think about each question below like a crime in court, if you tell me when it happened in the novel, and don't tell me why or how it happened, then the crime is not substantiated and will be thrown out of court for lack of evidence.
Questions- Write down the first example as a model response.
Analyse the use of the mood organ as a symbol. What does it suggest about human emotion and artificiality?
Example response notes: the pink highlighted is consistently linking back to the purpose and the genre of the novel- speculative sci-fi to highlight to the marker that I understand the composer has utilised form to achieve purpose. Note I have not said "use of (technique)" or "the quote" - these are reductive statements (pointless) and do not add marks so I do not include them. Note the quotations are done as in-text referenced, meaning they are inserted via a comma- this creates better cohesion and flow to a piece of writing.
Write this (if you have already, continue to next question)
Model Response: The symbolism of the technologically advanced mood organ in the Sci Fi novel DADES reveals Dick's concerns and speculations about human emotions being manipulated artificially in the future by rampant advancement in technology. The novel opens with the mood organ waking the protagonist, Rick Deckard, and the argument which ensues with his wife is about the manipulation of her mood, "Keep your hands off my settings", this bitter tone in the dialogue suggests Iran seeks autonomy in her use of her mood organ and that the organ can also be weaponised against others by deliberately creating artificial negative moods, "if you dial... for greater venom, then I'll do the same". The acerbic metaphor of "venom" evoked here, highlights Dick's concerns that such technology is dangerous as it can artificially corrupt natural human discourse.
How does the author use dialogue between Rick and Barbour to convey social status and insecurity? (Chapter 1)
Examine the tone of Rick’s reflections on his electric sheep. How does it contribute to the mood of the chapter?
What is the effect of the detailed description of the electric sheep’s control panel on the reader’s understanding of the novel’s themes?
How does Philip K. Dick use contrast between real and artificial animals to explore the theme of authenticity? Use the symbolism of the Owl at the Rosen Corporation and the dialogue between Rachael and Deckard to enhance the evidence of this contrast.
Identify examples of imagery related to animals and technology. How do these images support the novel’s dystopian setting?
Discuss how the narrative perspective shapes our understanding of Rick Deckard’s character in this chapter.
How does the author’s choice of vocabulary (e.g., the euphemistic “retire” for killing androids) influence the reader’s perception of violence and morality in the story?
How does the metaphor "tyranny of objects" relate to the narrative's central theme?