When we are asked to summarise a work of literature, what might be expected is to render a synopsis of the work in question, probably adding a detail here and there which might interest the listener. But to critically summarise a work of literature may be to don the robes of a critic. Obviously there are differences in the way a reader and a critic might react to a work.
As an example I have generally loved to read William Blake’s Tyger poem for the melodious verse and the beautiful image it evokes of this mysterious creation of the Lord in such brilliant phrases. But for a critical summary I have to go beyond the mere enjoyment of the poem and look for certain things which place this poem among the greatest written by the poet, and also bestow this poem that quality of universality and timelessness which is the mark of great Literature.
For a beginner what is usually taught, to critically summarise any work of Literature is to first understand the quality of the work in question. A critic’s judgement is valued and therefore it has to unbiased, measured and precise. To perfect this is not an easy task and requires a great amount of reading, comparative analysis and insight. A small test for a beginner is look for the theme, tone, symbol, imagery, narrative technique and voice. When these premises are established one can look for that uniqueness which may set apart the work in question. What is it that give it a profoundness? Is the writer’s portrayal of the plot, ideas, theme or narrative adequate to create the final effect and so on. As the critic starts to write he/she has to very careful since criticism is said to be a difficult form of writing and vitriolic criticism could destroy a career as it did in the case of John Keats.