Final answer:
In literary analysis, a writer's point about the work must be supported with an argument bolstered by evidence. Plot and theme are key elements for understanding a text's message, with the theme representing the unifying idea behind the story. Evidence, including summaries and quotes, is essential to substantiate the analysis.
Step-by-step explanation:
In a literary analysis, once a writer establishes a point about the work, the argument must be supported with evidence. This fundamental process in literary analysis is crucial to validating the critiques and perspectives the writer presents. When examining literature, identifying the plot and theme is essential to forming an understanding of the text's message and purpose.
The plot provides context for the events within the story, helping to piece together the 'bigger picture.' The theme, on the other hand, is the unifying idea that connects plot points, conflicts, and characters to a meaningful concept that often comments on humanity or life.
Starting with an analytical introduction of a nonfiction work by covering genre, title, author, and publication date sets the stage for discussing the author's perspective or argument. To build a robust literary analysis, the writer's thesis—an argumentative statement—is supported with relevant evidence such as paraphrases, summaries, and quotes from the text, and possibly external sources for research. It is vital to substantiate the literary analysis with specific evidence that correlates directly with the initial point made about the literary piece, demonstrating how the elements like character, style, tone, or theme contribute to the work's overall meaning.