Final answer:
Reading literature for pleasure involves experiencing and responding to a narrative, characters, and language, leading to a symbiotic relationship between writer and reader. Literary analysis or close reading takes this further by critically examining a text's form and content. Both approaches deepen appreciation of literature and enhance understanding of human experiences.
Step-by-step explanation:
The phrase "Read for pleasure, including the aesthetic experience of literary texts" refers to the idea of engaging with literature for personal enjoyment. This involves not just the act of reading, but also the emotional and intellectual responses a reader has to a literary text. According to Dr. Milligan, the pleasure of reading includes understanding the collaboration between the reader and the writer, where both parties contribute to the experience. The writer creates the text, and the reader brings it to life by responding to the narrative and interpreting the characters, language, and themes. This creates a symbiotic unity between writing and reading, as outlined by authors like Virginia Woolf and scholars like Robert DiYanni.
Literary analysis, synonymous with close reading, on the other hand, is the deep examination of a text's language and form. It takes the reading experience a step further by asking readers to not only enjoy the text but also to analyze it critically. This means looking beyond the surface to understand the nuances of how a story is told and what makes it effective or meaningful. Analyzing literature in this way enhances one's understanding of human relations and cultural history, adding depth to the enjoyment of reading.
Overall, reading literature for pleasure can lead to a deeper appreciation of texts and a stronger engagement with the ideas and emotions they convey. Whether one is simply enjoying a story or delving into literary criticism, literature offers a unique viewpoint on the human condition and an opportunity for lifelong learning.