Documentation - Preparing a List of Works Cited

 

Introduction

In the contemporary academic world, research and writing are not limited to collecting information; they involve responsibility, organization, and ethical awareness. Every piece of academic writing requires proper citation, structured research methods, and sensitivity in language. This task brings together several important aspects of academic practice, including the importance of citation, annotated bibliography preparation, eco-criticism, and inclusive language analysis.

The central theme of this blog focuses on Climate Change and Literature, explored through the lens of eco-criticism. Eco-criticism helps readers understand how literature reflects environmental crises and human responsibility toward nature. By examining key works such as The Great Derangement: Climate Change and the Unthinkable by Amitav Ghosh and foundational texts like The Ecocriticism Reader: Landmarks in Literary Ecology, the discussion connects literary studies with real-world environmental challenges. Alongside literary analysis, this task also emphasizes the importance of citation practices guided by the MLA Handbook, demonstrating how academic integrity and inclusive language strengthen scholarly writing.

Thus, this blog is not only about climate change in literature but also about developing responsible research skills, ethical citation habits, and critical awareness in academic writing.

Discuss the Importance of Citation in Detail

Citation is a fundamental element of academic writing. It refers to the practice of acknowledging the sources from which we borrow ideas, information, data, or direct quotations. Whenever we use someone else’s intellectual work whether from a book, journal article, website, interview, or any other source we must give proper credit. Citation is not just a technical rule; it is an ethical and intellectual responsibility.

One of the most important reasons for citation is to prevent plagiarism. Plagiarism occurs when a writer presents another person’s ideas or words as their own. By citing sources properly, we clearly show which ideas belong to other scholars and which are our own interpretations. This practice protects academic honesty and maintains integrity in research. It also safeguards students and researchers from serious academic penalties such as failing grades, suspension, or damage to reputation.

Citation also strengthens the credibility of academic work. When arguments are supported by reliable sources, readers are more likely to trust the writer. Referencing respected scholars, research studies, or established theories demonstrates that the writer has engaged seriously with the subject. It shows that the argument is based on evidence rather than personal opinion. As a result, citation enhances the quality and authority of the writing.

Another important function of citation is that it allows readers to verify information. Academic writing is part of a larger scholarly conversation. When writers provide detailed references, readers can trace the original source, examine the evidence, and explore the topic further. This transparency promotes trust and encourages further research. It also contributes to the growth of knowledge, as ideas are shared and developed across time.

Citation also helps writers develop research skills. While conducting research, students learn to distinguish between primary and secondary sources, evaluate the credibility of materials, and organize their findings systematically. Keeping accurate records of sources encourages careful reading and note-taking. Over time, this habit improves analytical thinking and academic discipline.

Moreover, citation acknowledges intellectual contribution. Knowledge is built collectively through the work of many thinkers and researchers. By citing sources, we show respect for the efforts of others and recognize that our work builds upon existing scholarship. It reflects humility and appreciation for the academic community.

Different academic disciplines follow specific citation styles such as MLA, APA, or Chicago. These styles provide clear rules for formatting in-text citations and preparing a Works Cited or References page. Using a consistent style ensures clarity, uniformity, and professionalism in academic writing.

In conclusion, citation is essential for maintaining honesty, credibility, and scholarly responsibility. It prevents plagiarism, strengthens arguments, supports verification, and connects writers to the broader academic community. Proper citation is not merely a formal requirement—it is the foundation of ethical and effective research writing.

Climate Change and Literature (Eco-criticism)

Climate Change and Literature is a field of study where we look at how writers describe nature, the environment, and the climate crisis in poems, novels, stories, and essays. This area of study is called Eco-criticism.

What is Eco-criticism?

Eco-criticism is a way of reading literature that focuses on the relationship between human beings and nature. It asks questions like:

• How is nature shown in this story?

• Does the writer respect the environment?

• How do human actions harm the planet?

• What message does the text give about climate change?

In simple words, eco-criticism studies how literature talks about the Earth.

What is Climate Change?

Climate change means long-term changes in temperature and weather patterns. It mostly happens because of human activities like:

• Burning coal and petrol

• Cutting forests

• Industrial pollution

Because of this, we see:

• Global warming

• Floods and droughts

• Melting glaciers

• Stronger storms

How Does Literature Connect with Climate Change?

Writers help us understand climate change emotionally, not just scientifically. Science gives data and numbers, but literature gives stories, feelings, and imagination.

For example, the Indian writer Amitav Ghosh in his book The Great Derangement says that modern literature has failed to properly talk about climate change. He argues that climate change is real and serious, but many novels ignore it.

Through stories, writers:

• Show how people suffer because of floods or drought

• Explain the loss of animals and forests

• Make readers feel responsible

• Encourage environmental awareness

Why Is Eco-criticism Important?

Eco-criticism is important because:

1. It makes us think about our responsibility toward nature.

2. It connects literature with real environmental problems.

3. It shows how culture and imagination shape our understanding of climate change.

4. It encourages sustainable thinking.

Simple Example

If a novel describes a village destroyed by rising sea levels, an eco-critical reading will ask:

• Who caused this destruction?

• Is it natural or human-made?

• What message is the author giving?

• Does the story criticize industrial society?

Conclusion 

Climate Change and Literature (Eco-criticism) studies how writers talk about the environment and the climate crisis. It helps us understand that climate change is not only a scientific problem but also a cultural and moral issue. Literature makes the problem real and emotional, helping readers care about the future of the planet.

Annotated Bibliography

Topic: Climate Change and Literature (Eco-criticism)

In recent years, climate change has become not only a scientific issue but also a literary and cultural concern. Eco-criticism studies how literature represents nature, environmental crisis, and the relationship between humans and the planet. The following annotated bibliography brings together different types of sources to understand how climate change is discussed in literature and cultural discourse.

1. Vincent, Suhasini.

“An Eco-Critical Analysis of Climate Change and the Unthinkable in Amitav Ghosh’s Fiction and Non-Fiction.” Humanities, vol. 7, no. 2, 2018, p. 59.

This scholarly article examines the works of Amitav Ghosh, especially his reflections on climate crisis. Vincent argues that climate change is not just a scientific phenomenon but also a failure of imagination in modern literature. She studies The Great Derangement: Climate Change and the Unthinkable and shows how literary narratives often avoid environmental catastrophe. This article is useful because it directly connects eco-criticism with contemporary Indian writing and provides a strong academic base for studying climate literature.

2. “It’s Official: The World Will Speed Past 1.5 °C Climate Threshold, UN Says.”

Live Science, 5 Nov. 2025.

This news article reports that global temperatures are likely to cross the 1.5°C limit in the coming decade. It explains the serious environmental and social consequences of rising temperatures. Although it is not a literary text, it gives important real-world context. Eco-criticism depends on understanding actual environmental threats, and this article reminds readers that climate change is a present reality, not just a fictional idea.

3. “Climate Change – Averting Catastrophe.”

DW Documentary, YouTube, 13 July 2023.

This documentary explores global efforts to deal with climate change. It includes scientific explanations, interviews, and real-life examples. From an eco-critical perspective, the documentary can be seen as a form of storytelling that shapes public understanding. Like literature, documentaries influence how audiences imagine environmental futures. It broadens the discussion beyond printed texts and shows how climate narratives circulate through media.

4. “Climate Change.”

United Nations – Global Issues.

This United Nations webpage explains the causes and consequences of climate change in clear and factual terms. It discusses global warming, greenhouse gases, and international climate action. This source provides reliable background information. When analyzing climate change in literature, it is important to understand the scientific reality behind the fictional or poetic representation.

5. Amitav Ghosh.

The Great Derangement: Climate Change and the Unthinkable. University of Chicago Press, 2016.

In this important book, Ghosh argues that modern literature has failed to respond adequately to climate change. He suggests that contemporary novels often ignore large-scale environmental disasters because they do not fit into traditional narrative structures. He calls this avoidance “the great derangement.” The book is central to eco-criticism because it questions the responsibility of writers and readers in facing ecological crisis.

6. Glotfelty, Cheryll, and Harold Fromm, editors.

The Ecocriticism Reader: Landmarks in Literary Ecology. University of Georgia Press, 1996.

This foundational anthology helped establish eco-criticism as an academic discipline. The essays explain how literature reflects human attitudes toward nature. It introduces key theoretical ideas that later scholars used to study environmental themes. This book is important because it provides the historical and theoretical background necessary to understand climate change studies in literature.

7. “Climate Change.”

United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

The UNFCCC website outlines international climate agreements and environmental policies. It shows how governments cooperate to reduce emissions and protect the planet. This source connects literary discussion with real political action. Climate fiction often critiques or reflects such global efforts, making this webpage relevant to eco-critical research.

8. Poster from Greedy Lying Bastards.

The poster of this climate documentary visually represents themes of environmental crisis and corporate responsibility. Eco-criticism also studies visual culture because images influence public understanding. The poster acts as a cultural text that communicates urgency and ethical responsibility, similar to how literature raises awareness.

Inclusive Language Analysis 

For this section, I examined a research article that discusses the representation of refugees in contemporary literature. In its introductory section, the article carefully uses respectful and inclusive language.

First, the article avoids stereotypes. Instead of portraying refugees only as helpless victims, it presents them as individuals with histories, identities, and agency. This follows the MLA’s principle of avoiding biased or generalized language.

Second, the introduction uses respectful terminology such as “people seeking asylum” rather than reducing individuals to a label. This aligns with the MLA guideline that encourages person-centered language.

Third, the article avoids gender bias by using neutral terms like “individuals,” “communities,” and “displaced persons.” It does not assume a single gender experience of displacement.

Finally, the introduction acknowledges the political and historical causes of displacement, such as war and economic inequality. By providing context, it avoids oversimplifying the refugee experience.

Overall, the introductory section follows several principles of inclusive language mentioned in the MLA Handbook (9th edition), particularly those related to avoiding stereotypes, respecting identity, and using precise and neutral terms.

Conclusion

To conclude, this task demonstrates that academic writing is a thoughtful and responsible process. Proper citation is essential because it maintains honesty, avoids plagiarism, and strengthens the credibility of research. Preparing an annotated bibliography further deepens understanding by organizing sources and evaluating their relevance.

The discussion on Climate Change and Literature shows that environmental issues are not confined to scientific reports alone. Through the works of writers like Amitav Ghosh, literature becomes a powerful medium to question human actions and imagine ecological futures. Eco-criticism reminds us that stories, novels, documentaries, and even visual media play an important role in shaping environmental awareness. Climate change is not only a physical crisis but also a cultural and moral challenge.

Moreover, the reflection on inclusive language highlights the ethical dimension of academic writing. Following the principles of the MLA Handbook ensures that research remains respectful, unbiased, and intellectually responsible.

Overall, this task strengthens critical thinking, research organization, and awareness of ethical writing practices. It shows that meaningful research connects knowledge with responsibility, sensitivity, and a deeper understanding of the world around us.

References : 

“Climate Change.” United Nations – Global Issues, United Nations, www.un.org/en/global-issues/climate-change.

“Climate Change.” United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, UNFCCC, unfccc.int/.

“Climate Change – Averting Catastrophe.” DW Documentary, YouTube, 13 July 2023, www.youtube.com/watch?v=pEt6-jA2UE4.

Ghosh, Amitav. The Great Derangement: Climate Change and the Unthinkable. University of Chicago Press, 2016.

Glotfelty, Cheryll, and Harold Fromm, editors. The Ecocriticism Reader: Landmarks in Literary Ecology. University of Georgia Press, 1996.

Greedy Lying Bastards. Directed by Craig Scott Rosebraugh, 2012.

“It’s Official: The World Will Speed Past 1.5 °C Climate Threshold, UN Says.” Live Science, 5 Nov. 2025, www.livescience.com/planet-earth/climate-change/its-official-the-world-will-speed-past-1-5-c-climate-threshold-in-the-next-decade-un-says.

Modern Language Association. MLA Handbook. 9th ed., Modern Language Association of America, 2021.

Vincent, Suhasini. “An Eco-Critical Analysis of Climate Change and the Unthinkable in Amitav Ghosh’s Fiction and Non-Fiction.” Humanities, vol. 7, no. 2, 2018, p. 59. MDPI, https://doi.org/10.3390/h7020059.