In a body paragraph of a prose analysis, you’re answering one focused aspect of how the author’s literary techniques create meaning or effect. Here’s the breakdown:

1. Core Question to Answer:
“How does a specific literary device or stylistic choice contribute to the text’s themes, tone, or emotional impact?”

2. Key Elements to Include:
A. Topic Sentence
Clearly state the device/technique (e.g., irony, symbolism, diction) and its purpose.

Example:

Carver uses situational irony in the title “The Little Things” to underscore how trivial conflicts escalate into tragedy.

B. Evidence
Quote or paraphrase the text (1–2 lines max).

Example:

The couple’s argument begins over a suitcase but culminates in a tug-of-war: “He felt the baby slipping out of his hands and he pulled back very hard.”

C. Analysis
Explain how the device works in the quote and why it matters.

Example:

The verb “slipping” suggests the child’s literal and metaphorical loss, while “pulled back very hard” reveals the parents’ violent desperation. By later calling the baby an “issue,” Carver strips the scene of empathy, showing how pride dehumanizes.

D. Connection to Theme/Effect
Link the device to the broader message or author’s purpose.

Example:

This irony mirrors Carver’s warning: minor conflicts, fueled by ego, destroy what matters most.

3. Avoid These Pitfalls:
❌ Summarizing plot (focus on how the story is told, not what happens).
❌ Vague claims (e.g., “This shows the story is sad”—explain how the language creates sadness).
❌ Listing devices without analysis (e.g., “Carver uses symbolism and irony” → How? Why?).

4. Checklist for Success:
✔ One device per paragraph (e.g., dedicate one paragraph to irony, another to symbolism).
✔ Textual evidence + page/line numbers (if applicable).
✔ Author’s name (e.g., “Carver implies…”) to maintain focus on craft.

Example Thesis-to-Body Flow:
Thesis: Carver’s irony and symbolism reveal how pride corrupts love.

Body Paragraph: Analyzes how the title’s irony (“The Little Things”) contrasts with the horrific ending to expose this corruption.

Pro Tip: Imagine you’re explaining why the author made a specific choice and how it impacts the reader’s understanding. This keeps your analysis sharp and original.

Would you like to practice with another passage?