Thomas C. Foster, in How to Read Literature Like a Professor, believes that "there's only one story." He repeats that belief several times in the book. He contends that all writers borrow ideas, plots, symbols, and characters from every poem, play, short story, novel, historical event or movie they have ever read or seen. Greek and Roman mythology, the Bible and Shakespeare are important influences on writers. According to Foster, all writers borrow from previous works and blend these borrowed ideas into their own writing.
I agree with Foster's idea of "only one story." I know that when I read novels, I'll think that the main character reminds me of someone I've read about before. In certain poems or novels, there are direct references to verses from the Bible. I also think that a writer's frame of reference is determined by what he has read, experienced, and seen.
Foster writes about intertextuality where there is a "dialogue between old texts and new" that is always going on. Intertextuality deepens and enriches the reading experience. Foster's idea that there is "only one story" helps the reader become more comfortable reading when there is a "familiar component from an earlier experience." The reader feels connected to the story and wants to continue and finish the reading, or as Foster says, "It feels good and the awareness of similarity makes us want to read more." He says the reader has an "aha! moment" when they recognize elements from a prior text in their reading.
Isabella - I think you are spot on when you say, "...a writer's frame of reference is determined by what he has read, experienced, and seen." This is why avid readers and those who have rich life experiences quickly gain so much from literature.
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ReplyDeleteWhen I first read this chapter and Thomas C. Foster was explaining that there was only one story I was confused. I did not understand if he meant that there was one story that all writers copy. I then wondered, “What is this story?” I then discussed Foster’s idea with my sister and she provided me with an analogy. She explained that the “one story” is like cooking a meal. The ingredients are readily available just like the elements in a book. She continued explaining that you can add a dash of salt like an author will add a dash of snow in his or her story.
You also explained discussed the idea of intertextuality and how it ‘enriches the reading process”. I agree with you because intertextuality makes the reading process more enjoyable. It is exciting when I can see elements inspired or similar to another author’s work.