I am asked to describe the "syntax" of a book I am reading. I have looked up several definitions of the word and still do not understand what it means.
What book are you reading? Title and author?
http://www.answers.com/topic/syntax
Look at definition #3 in the link above.
If I had that assignment with Grapes of Wrath, I would write about the alternating of content in each chapter. In the odd numbered chapters, Steinbeck is philosophical; in the even numbered chapters, he tells the story itself.
If I had that assignment with Poe's story "The Oval Portrait," I'd be writing about the story within the frame story (or simply the story within the story).
Structure! Syntax!!
To understand the meaning of "syntax" in the context of a book, we should first understand the general definition of syntax. Syntax refers to the rules and structure that govern the arrangement of words and phrases in a language. It deals with the order, grammar, and punctuation used to form sentences and phrases.
When describing the syntax of a book, we are referring to the author's writing style and the specific way in which they construct their sentences and paragraphs. It encompasses elements such as sentence length, word choices, punctuation, complexity, and overall organization.
To analyze the syntax of a book, you can pay attention to the following aspects:
1. Sentence Structure: Observe if the sentences are short or long, whether they are simple or complex, and how they are organized. Are there any variations in sentence patterns that contribute to the author's writing style?
2. Word Choices: Pay attention to the vocabulary the author uses. Do they employ formal or informal language? Do they use technical terms, jargon, or colloquialisms?
3. Punctuation: Analyze the author's use of punctuation marks like commas, semicolons, colons, dashes, and quotation marks. Notice their placement and purpose in shaping the author's intended meaning and emphasis.
4. Paragraph Organization: Examine how paragraphs are structured. Are they concise and focused on a single idea, or do they span multiple topics? Look for transitions and cohesive devices that connect paragraphs.
5. Overall Style and Tone: Consider the author's tone and writing style. Is it formal, informal, persuasive, descriptive, or something else? Analyze how the syntax contributes to the overall tone and mood of the book.
By observing these aspects, you can gain a deeper understanding of the author's writing style and how it influences the book's overall impact. Remember that analyzing syntax is subjective to some extent, as different readers may interpret and appreciate a book's syntax differently. It is an exploration that allows you to appreciate the artistic choices made by the author and their impact on the overall reading experience.