We analyze and interpret a text by focusing on its plot
development, theme, characterization, setting, irony,
metaphor, simile, symbols etc.,. As you can see ‘new
criticism’ analyzes a text in unity.
Using new criticism requires our common sense and of
course a lot of practice.
Then we conclude from our interpretation and analysis
that the literary text is universal and timeless once it has
all the requirements.
A piece of literature that has the required literary
elements and tells a story with universal themes about
humanity will be highly revered.
Thus, new criticism tends to ignore ‘bad’ texts, and only
focuses on literary canon.