Close Read

A close read, sometimes called an explication, is a detailed analysis of a small section of a “text,” such as a paragraph from a novel or a verse from a poem.

Traditionally applied to poetry and fiction, close reads can also be relevant to songs, commercials, films, even video games. Regardless of the text, the goal is always to uncover new meanings through a minute analysis.

For this assignment, you'll conduct a close read of two photos (50 words each) from an iconic fashion photographer. You may explore any aspect of the photos that you like, but remember to keep your analyses precise. Unlike an general analysis essay, close reads keep their examinations very focused.

Due: Fri 5.10 (via Packack)

Choose two of the following photos for you close reads:

Brook Shields by Richard Avedon, 1980

 

Kate Bush by Anton Corbjin, 1982

Brian Buzzini by Herb Ritts, c. 1988

Cindy Crawford and Claudia Schiffer by Bruce Weber, 1993

Lady Gaga by David LaChapelle, 2009

Zendaya by Petra Collins, 2016

Harry Styles by Tyler Mitchell, 2020

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Naomi Campbell by Annie Leibovitz, 2023