Close Read

A close read, sometimes called an explication, is a detailed analysis of a small section of a text, such as a portion of a novel, or a shorter text, such as a poem. Though traditionally applied to poetry and fiction, close reads can also be relevant to photos, songs, films, even video games. Whatever the medium, goal is always to uncover new meanings through a minute analysis.

For this assignment you will conduct close read of a photograph from the infamous paparazzo Ron Galella. In a career spanning decades, Galella was the bane of celebrities worldwide. His aggressive and intrusive style earned him many enemies. Today, however, his photographs are celebrated and highly sought after by serious photography collectors. 

Requirements: 

• MLA Style 
• ≈500 words (two full pages)
  

Due: Fri 10.18 (via Canvas)

Below are the photos you may choose from for you close read. Write about only one.

 Sean Penn, 1986

 

John F. Kennedy Jr., 1980

Naomi Campbell, 1991

 

Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, 1968

 

 

 

Winona Ryder and Keanu Reeves, 1989

Raquel Welch, 1971

Al Pacino, 1979

Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, 1971