Interpretation of Literature

Interpretation of literature- or ‘interp’- events are performance events where a speaker takes one or more pre-existing works and performs them in order to support an original argument.

Prose Interpretation: In prose the speaker performs a piece of prose, or a written work. Focus of this event is on the development of the narrative/story.

Drama Interpretation: In this event the speaker performs material that was written to be performed. This material may be drawn from stage, screen, radio, etc. The focus of this event is on the development of characterization.

Poetry Interpretation: In this event the speaker performs a selection or selections of poetry of literary merit, which may be drawn from more than one source. A primary focus of this event should be on the development of language.

Program Oral Interpretation: A program of thematically-linked selections of literary merit, chosen from two or three recognized genres of competitive interpretation (prose/poetry/drama). A primary focus of this event should be on the development of the theme through the use of narrative/story, language, and/or characterization.

Dramatic Duo: Duo is the only interp event requiring two people. The two speakers perform a piece together without touching or looking at each other.