Short Composition: Interpreting Quotations & Proverbs

For the next short composition, you will write about a proverb or quotation.  You will interpret its meaning, and then give your personal opinion about it (developing your opinion with points and specific, supporting details.)

The composition should have two main parts:

1.  The first paragraph interprets the meaning of the quotation/proverb.  For example, beginning with "The saying 'When in Rome, do as the Romans do' (St. Ambrose) means that wherever a person goes, he should follow the habits of the people who live there.  Often this is true, but there are exceptions..."

2.  The body of your short composition gives a response that explains/supports your opinion.  The body should contain a personal story that supports your interpretation -- and should be organized as one extended example (narration), which includes parallel points and supporting reasons. (For example, "When I came to this country, I didn't know much about U.S. customs.  I did know one custom though.  I knew that Americans keep their shoes on in the house.  One day, when I was invited to the house of my father's American friend I had an embarrassing moment..."

Please underline your articles after you have finished typing the composition and edit for the correct use of articles.  A composition that works with quotations and proverbs is a great way to practice the use of articles with abstract nouns (such as love, time, war,  and peace.)  The quotation itself should be the title of your post.  Please also include an image with your composition that illustrates your interpretation.