Definition: The process of interpreting written language.

Alright class, settle down, let’s take a peek, At this word “readings,” what knowledge we seek! The dictionary tells us, it’s quite clear and bright, “The process of interpreting written light.” But let's break it down, with a little rhyme, It’s more than just words, transcending time. "Readings" means to look at text with care, And find the meaning hidden there! Think about a poem, or a story told, We're not just scanning, brave and bold. We’re digging deeper, considering why, The author wrote it, beneath the sky. It’s about understanding what is said, And all the feelings that lie ahead! So "readings" isn't just reading fast, It’s thoughtful pondering, built to last! Do you have any questions? Let's discuss with glee, This important concept for you and me!

Definition: Variant readings are variations on a particular text, such as a verse or stanza, in which certain words or phrases have been altered or changed slightly from their original form. These variations can be intentional to create a more poetic or expressive effect, or accidental to provide additional meaning beyond what was intended. For example, the poem "The Raven" by Edgar Allan Poe may use a variant reading where the word "night" is replaced with "darkness," which could suggest the sense of darkness and mystery that might not be immediately apparent in the original text. Alternatively, the word "night" could be altered to suggest the idea of an eerie or haunted atmosphere, rather than simply being used as a simple punctuation mark. The term "variant reading" is often associated with the use of alternative readings in literature, but it can also refer to any variation on a particular text that is intended to add depth, meaning, or interpretation beyond what was originally intended. These variations may be intentionally meant to create a more complex or nuanced sense of the text, and they are not always intentional variations but rather accidental changes for the sake of the work. For example, an author might choose to alter the first line of a poem to suggest the idea of a person standing in a dark or ominous place, such as in "The Raven" by Edgar Allan Poe. This could be unintentional, as it simply appears that way due to the use of a variant reading, but it still serves as an interesting variation on a common theme. Overall, variant readings are a common literary device used in literature to add depth and meaning to works of art, often intentionally or accidentally intended to create new meanings beyond what was originally meant.

variant readings