Final answer:
Integrating quotations smoothly into a text requires signal phrases, proper context, and explanations that maintain the flow and keep the writer’s voice dominant.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a writer incorporates a direct quotation into their own text, it is critical to do so in a way that maintains the flow of the essay.
This can be achieved by using a signal phrase to introduce quotations, ensuring that readers understand who's speaking and the context.
A successful integration of quotes includes attribution, where readers can follow the relevance, and are not left with 'floating quotations' that disrupt the flow of the narrative.
As a part of good writing practice, any quotation should be smoothly woven into the paper, rather than dropped abruptly.
Quotes should be used strategically and accompanied by the writer's own analysis or explanation to keep the author's voice predominant.
It's important to avoid the overuse of quotations, which can lead the essay to become a patchwork of other people's voices rather than showcasing the writer's original thoughts.
For instance, paraphrasing the original material from Thoreau, a writer might integrate a quote as follows: In his contemplation of life's unfulfilled dreams,
Thoreau ponders, 'The mass of men lead lives of quiet desperation' (Walden, 5), emphasizing the internal struggles that often go unnoticed.
In this example, the quotation is clearly introduced, explained, and connected to the writer's argument. Moreover, the writer's narrative isn't overpowered by the source material due to strategic quoting and paraphrasing.