Redistribute Information: Paraphrasing and Poetry
Can a reader better understand poetry by paraphrasing it? Perhaps the most effective way of breaking down great works of literature is by using the method of paraphrasing. Paraphrasing composites of sentences – lacking any single definition – is the process of reformulating a text for the purpose of improving comprehension. It has proven to be arguably the most effective and efficient way to comprehend poetic works.
There are many benefits to paraphrasing literary works. Readers hone their comprehension skills to break down difficult and complex phrases, vocabulary and parts of speech that may be present in the text they are reading. A different perspective on a text can be revealed, by rearranging the order of words and placing them into a different context. By doing this, readers increase their ability to understand the text and find further connections.
At the same time, readers can identify the emotional impact of the text and the attitude of the author or speaker. Generally, understanding evoked emotions works best with paraphrasing, as the same words can carry different meanings to different readers, depending on the way they have been explained. Additionally, as readers improve their ability to paraphrase, they can better understand the global structure and implications of the text they are reading.
Interestingly, many readers observe an increased engagement when they practice paraphrasing, which further motivates them to expand their reading progresses. In her research paper, ‘Effectiveness of Teaching by Paraphrasing of Poems’, professor Melissa Thomas observes that “this process not only improved their reading comprehension but also motivated them to read and understand the poem better.” It is, therefore, a foolproof method for better understanding poetry and literary works.
Readers must be aware, however, that paraphrasing is not a simple, straightforward process. Although it is a great method for improving the abilities of the reader, it presents unique challenges. Firstly, it takes a lot of practice to accurately paraphrase. Difficult sentences or phrases need to be broken down and rebuilt in order to capture their true essence. Unlike conventional reading techniques, the reader is required to be in the habit of restructuring sentences and deciphering the true meaning of them. Additionally, readers need to possess a broad base of vocabulary in order to find the correct replacement words when phrasing the poem differently.
Specific Poetic Forms
Many specific forms of poetry have complex constructions and require specific knowledge in order to understand. For example, Petrarchan sonnets have a precise construction and by paraphrasing the poem, the reader has to be fluent in the form. Whilst readers can apply the same technique in order to understand more traditional forms of poetry, with the more specific ones they must comprehend the implications of the structure itself.
Also, comprehension of the rhythm of the language is essential in order to effectively paraphrase. Rhythmic phrases or stanzas should be kept intact and only rephrased lightly, if needed. The same technique applies to epic poetry, as paraphrasing requires the reader to understand the construction of the text and decide which parts need to be altered in order to convey the true meaning.
A tricky feat is paraphrasing a poetic work that has an undecipherable message. When this is the case, the reader should explore external sources where the author has previously gone into the details of the text. In the absence of such sources, the reader is left only to their own devices in order to interpret the message and find a way to effectively convey it.
Thematic Paraphrasing
The majority of readers use thematic paraphrasing rather loose paraphrasing techniques, to interpret the meaning of the text. Loose paraphrasing works best with texts that require a more general approach whilst thematic paraphrasing applies to works with a very narrow and specific context. The reader will have to recognize recognizable structural elements associated with the theme and “play” with the options the poem provides.
For thematic paraphrasing, readers are advised to engage with the text more closely. As they read through the text, they should consciously note down all the information associated with the text – any words, images, or other references that reinforce the theme. As they build a database of this information, they can rearrange it and establish connections, which will eventually help them find a way to better explain the text.
Function of Paraphrasing
The general function of, or reason for, paraphrasing is to communicate the message of the text to the reader. By redistributing the information, the reader can comprehend the text in a more general or complex context. The key to the successful comprehension of a poem is to understand the structure and the message it conveys and how it relates to the context of the poem.
Additionally, readers can synthesize and analyze the original text, compare it with other similar works, and gain further knowledge of the genre and its meaning. In this sense, it is safe to say that, when applied correctly and accompanied with dedicated practice and consistency, paraphrasing is an indispensable aid in understanding and analyzing literature.
Mental Health Benefits
Important to note, however, is that this process can have significant health benefits. Research indicates that the practice of “thinking outside the box” and challenging the mind is a great way of keeping mental health at an optimal level. This is because by exercising their interpretation skills, readers can stimulate their own brilliance and imagination.
Another important aspect of paraphrasing is that readers gain a more profound and objective understanding of the text. By distancing themselves from the poem’s main message, they can explore the material in a more subtle, intrusive manner by discovering and interpreting different perspectives on the poem. As such, readers receive a bigger, more comprehensive perspective and understanding of the nature of the poem.
Amplify Vocabularies
Finally, paraphrasing has the capacity to build up a reader’s vocabulary. As with the previously mentioned health benefits, the ability to find alternative words in the context of the poem can stimulate a reader’s creativity and enhance their mastery over the English language. The difficulty of this process should, however, not be understated. It takes a considerable amount of effort and attention to detail in order to complete the process correctly, without making any errors.
Conclusion of the Benefits
In conclusion, by applying a combination of techniques, readers are presented with innovating ways of comprehending works of literature. Paraphrasing allows for a different perspective on the text, which can further help readers understand its meaning and significance. It is important to recognize that this is an attentive exercise and requires dedicated practice in order to reap the true benefits of the process.
Implications
Paraphrasing poetry enables the reader to gain a more profound understanding of the text and the message it conveys. Readers can more effectively identify the emotional impact of the poem and build up a comprehensive picture of its implications. By engaging with the poem, readers can further develop their mastery of the language, their ability to synthesize and analyze the work, and their overall mental health.
Limitations
Whilst paraphrasing is a fantastic tool for improving comprehension, it also presents certain limitations. It is important to note that it takes substantial practice to accurately paraphrase material, particularly when it comes to specific forms of poetry, such as the Petrarchan sonnet. Additionally, the process requires a broad base of vocabulary in order to replace the words from the original text.
Motivation
A great motivator for readers to attempt the practice of paraphrasing is the prospect of improving their reading comprehension. Paraphrasing can provide a different perspective on a text and allow the reader to establish further connections. It also offers various health benefits, such as increasing mental stimulation and stimulating creativity.
Context
Context is essential when applying the technique of paraphrasing to materials. By exploring the external sources which relate to the text, readers can build a larger picture of the meaning of the poem. This is particularly useful when dealing with undecipherable symbols and messages in the poem, as it allows the reader to find a suitable replacement phrase for the intended message.
