Page 103 - READING COMPANION TO ENGLISH EXAMS

6.1 LITERARY GENRES

Fictional Genres as Mirrors to Society’s Reflection

Literary genres have been extensively used as a medium to comment on social and political issues. Genres
(1)
like dystopian and science fiction can bring up current issues through imagined future worlds. With the
(2)
creation of a hypothetical world, authors can highlight specific aspects of society that they believe need
(3)
addressing. These genres often depict societies in which technology and/or authority control has reached
(4)
frightening levels, prompting readers to consider the consequences of unchecked power. Take Aldous Huxley’s
Brave New World, which is a vivid portrayal of a dystopian world where people are genetically engineered
(5)
and strictly controlled by those in power, addressing themes such as conformity and totalitarianism. Historical
fiction, on the other hand, can shed light on lesser-known or marginalised historical events, providing a fresh
perspective on the past. By fictionalising and reimagining past events, authors can daringly challenge
(7)
(6)
dominant, established narratives and spotlight the emotions, motivations, and experiences of those involved.
Someone Knows My Name by Lawrence Hill, for example, tells the story of the Black Loyalists, who were
offered safe passage to Nova Scotia in exchange for their service to the British King during the American
Revolution. This novel focuses on the struggles of African American people at that time, pointing out how
(8)
they were oppressed and restrained. In conclusion, these genres provide a platform for social and political
commentary where authors can critique contemporary (9) society. Employing these genres, authors discuss
themes and issues without being constrained (10) by the factual limitations of non-fiction writing.

a Choose the synonyms of the highlighted and numbered words and phrases in the passage.
1. A broadly B frankly C smartly D briefly

2. A impede B raise C prove D avoid

3. A undebatable B controversial C domineering D speculative
4. A conceal B reverse C describe D impart
5. A declaration B generalisation C compilation D representation

6. A viewpoint B mastermind C background D cornerstone

7. A faintly B rarely C closely D boldly
8. A neglect B claim C mention D pretend

9. A corrupt B modern C superior D civilised
10. A disturb B force C restrict D irritate

b Complete the sentences with the correct forms of the words given below.

constrained depict hypothetical
daringly extensively
1. The of characters and settings varies widely across different literary genres, influencing
the tone and themes of each work.
2. An author’s use of figurative language, including metaphors, similes, and personification,
adds depth and complexity to their writing.
3. The of language can both challenge and inspire writers to create works of literature that
push the boundaries of expression.
4. Various have been put forward regarding The Time Machine by H.G. Wells, including its
potential as a commentary on social class and the nature of time itself.
5. The most memorable and impactful works of literature often come from the minds of
authors who are willing to take risks and explore controversial topics.

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