In all cases, what matters is how you’re going to use what you’re quoting. Merely quoting someone or some text doesn’t mean that quote is useful to your argument.

This is a 10-page final paper of expository writing in which students write a critical analysis of a pulp fiction novel or film of their choice of a pulp fiction novel or film of their choice. The final paper is not simple an extension of response papers. In fact, the two differ significantly; for example, in response papers you took a personal approach to pursue immature analyses whereas in final paper you’re expected to articulate fully-developed critical arguments about the texts/films you’re analyzing. Since this is a critical paper, you should integrate at least 2 of the scholarly sources we have discussed during the semester. It’s highly encouraged that you incorporate readings from outside the course materials, but it’s not required. Some of you have already done that in Response Papers. In all cases, what matters is how you’re going to use what you’re quoting. Merely quoting someone or some text doesn’t mean that quote is useful to your argument. There are many ways of “interacting” with other people’s arguments; you could counter them, you could build your argument on them, you could challenge them, you could highlight their shortcomings, etc. In short, you should have a reason why you’re bringing someone else’s views while you’re presenting your argument.

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