The passage suggests that which one of the following most accurately describes the author's view of deconstructionist...
amfDecember 13, 2019
Please explain
Hello, I had E as the correct answer. Can you explain why it is d? It seems to me that Criticism by nature also focuses on the negatives and is similar to deconstruction in that way. It seemed like E better characterized the author's viewpoint.
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This question is asking you to determine what the author thinks about the subject. These can be tricky questions as we have to look past the strict tense and understand how the author is feeling/thinking.
Once you’ve read the question, re-read the passage and see if you can get a sense of what the author thinks before turning to the answer choices. Line 11 introduces us to the concept of deconstructionist thought, and tells us that most of the passage will be about it. Lines 27-35 then describe the mechanical nature of deconstructionism, and the author seems to be a bit negative in the description. So, to me, it appear the author does not think highly of deconstructionist thought.
Now, turning to the answer choices: (A) is incorrect. The author does not discuss deconstructionist thought in positive or optimistic tones. Lines 41- 45 tell us that the deconstructionists like to use their tools to break down writing and show its illusions and bad faith. However, these lines do not suggest that the author is optimistic about deconstructionists doing this.
(B) is incorrect. The author never endorses deconstructionism.
(C) is incorrect. The author is definitely not enthusiastic about deconstructionism.
(D) is correct. Lines 35-45 talk about the mechanical nature of deconstructionism, and do so in a slightly negative manner. This answer choice reflects the author’s distaste for how deconstructionists operate.
(E) is incorrect. First, the author never overtly condemns deconstructionism (which is why this question is tricky). Second, the piece is about how deconstructionists have made literary criticism too mechanical. The author seems to wish it were more creative.
hfatima1May 27, 2020
I did not choose D, because the word only is very restrictive. How are we supposed to know when to focus on that type of language and when not too?
BhumiJune 3, 2020
I also have the same questions when referring to the word "only". Please advise.
