Grammar is an important tool in reading. When it comes to aiding a young scholar in the art of interpretation, I find grammar a useful tool. It is a combination of the phonics and holistic argument. In order to see the whole I must see the parts. Grammar is an important tool especially for weak readers to help them see through the fog. It is an important tool for good readers to help them see how they see. Grammar is the mathematics of literature and composition. Grammar is the skeleton upon which we hang the muscles and flesh of lit and comp.
Consider the genre or drama, poetry, fiction, and non-fiction and immediately one will see the import of grammar. Interpreting Shakespeare is made easier once one considers his grammar. In _Macbeth_ the reader should follow the verb "to do." By following "to do" a common thread is immediately seen in this play and the reader immediately finds the skeleton upon which Shakespeare builds this play. Another play, _Hamlet_ can be unlocked by its grammar too. Follow the noun "ear" and its verb counterpart "hear" which rhymes and has a defining correlation and the reader is instantly privy to the skeleton of this play. Grammar gives the reader a base upon which further interpretation can be had. Grammar is the handle of literature. John Barton, the eminent Shakespearean director urges his players to look to the text when confused or baffled about playing a part. "Look to the text, and see what Shakespeare wrote to see how to play the part." he extols. Barton is saying look to the grammar. Consider the word "art" and "heart" in _The Tempest_ or look to the grammar of _Julius Caesar_ and how it is intricate in the art of persuasion. The grammar between Romeo and Juliet is a key to their words of love and eventual tragedy. Interpreting Shakespeare requires grammar, playing Shakespeare requires grammar, not just writing about Shakespeare.