A prose analysis is a close examination of how an author’s language, style, and literary devices contribute to the meaning and effect of a prose passage (such as a short story, novel excerpt, or essay). Unlike a summary, which retells events,

a prose analysis focuses on how the writing works and why the author makes specific stylistic choices.

Here’s a standard structure for a prose analysis:

1. Introduction
Briefly introduce the text (title, author, and context if necessary).

State the focus of your analysis (e.g., theme, tone, character development, or specific literary devices).

Thesis statement – A clear argument about how the prose functions and what effect it creates.

Example:
In Raymond Carver’s “The Little Things,” the minimalist prose and use of symbolism amplify the story’s tension, illustrating how trivial conflicts escalate into irreversible tragedy.

2. Body Paragraphs (Multiple, if needed)
Each paragraph should focus on one key literary device or stylistic choice and explain its effect. A strong analysis follows this pattern:

Topic Sentence – Introduces the literary device or technique being analyzed.

Evidence – A direct quote or paraphrased example from the text.

Analysis – Explanation of how the device works and why it matters.

Connection to Theme/Effect – Ties the analysis back to the thesis.

Example (from Carver’s story):
Carver’s use of dialogue without attribution (e.g., “Give me the baby.” “No.”) strips the argument down to its rawest form, heightening the tension. The lack of “he said/she said” tags forces the reader to focus solely on the escalating conflict, mirroring the characters’ inability to communicate beyond hostility.

3. Conclusion
Summarize key points without repetition.

Reinforce the thesis in light of the evidence.

Consider broader implications (e.g., why the author’s style matters, how it affects the reader, or how it relates to other works).

Example:
Through sparse dialogue and symbolic imagery, Carver transforms a mundane domestic dispute into a harrowing commentary on human stubbornness. The story’s power lies in what is left unsaid, forcing readers to confront the devastating consequences of unresolved conflict.