Popular music often includes lyrics with recognizable narrative qualities. Within that narrative one may be able to identify traditional plot points that combine
to reveal the overall theme of the song. The purpose of this essay is to provide an independent narrative analysis of the lyrics of one song of your choice, and
indicate how plot points emerge that lead to the theme of the song. Using any song you wish, provide a thesis driven essay that expresses your unique
insight about the narrative quality of the lyrics.
Begin with an introductory paragraph that provides a hook, the title and artist of the song, and your thesis statement regarding the significance of the lyrics in
revealing plot and theme.
In your body paragraphs, quote passages of the lyrics using MLA formatting of lines of verseLinks to an external site., and establish which plot points are
relevant to the selections. Add developmental commentary, showing your thoughts about the story that unfolds in these lyrics.
Conclude your essay with the expression of theme that fits the analysis of these lyrics. Reiterate your thesis, and end the paper with a lingering thought.
Prepare the Works Cited page with the album recordingLinks to an external site. for the source of the song. ❗ Do NOT cite the lyrics wiki you found for this
song. The wiki is useful, but the album or song is the source. No other sources are necessary for this essay.
Make sure the title of your essay exposes insight, provides content specific terms, and includes the name of the song in quotation marks. For example, a title
might be:
Theme and Plot in Ed Sheeran’s “Castle on the Hill”
Narrative Qualities in “Blinding Lights” by The Weeknd
Once Upon a Time: Story and Structure in David Crosby’s “Hero”
❗ Please note – I am interested only in the narrative analysis. Do not include artist biography or specific reasons for creating this song. Do not research the
meaning of this song, but make your own interpretation about the narrative impact of the lyrics.
The essay should be in objective 3rd person narrative point of view, about 3-4 pages (750-1000 words) in MLA format with a Works Cited page for the song
recordingLinks to an external site. information