New information cannot just "pop" out of nowhere. Any critical analysis, theory or discussion of literature must be situated within what has already been said. The author can responsibly place his/her argument beside those of his/her predecessors by following communication conventions within the field.
One pattern seen in most or all academic writing on the study of literature is that of the "discussion." Authors usually involve other authors in their presentations because they need to insert their opinions and observations into an on-going tradition of scholarly discourse. This communication convention is called the "Conversation Template," and a Professor of English outlines it: “In discussions of X, one controversial issue has been ____. On the one hand, ____ argues ____. On the other hand, _____ contends _______. Others even maintain _____. My own view is _______.” (Howard, 456) By presenting information in this manner, be it within an introduction paragraph or over the span of a text, the author acknowledges that the new information is entering an on-going discussion. The author claims a stake in the argument and begins to participate within the tradition. |
HOW IS NEW INFORMATION PRESENTED? |