Because a source cannot reveal its meaning or function by itself, you must make the connection between a source and your own ideas. A signal phrase can show readers how a quotation supports or challenges a point you are making.
Readers should not have to guess why a quotation appears in your paper. If you use another writer’s words, you must explain how they contribute to your point. It’s a good idea to embed a quotation—especially a long one—between sentences of your own. In addition to introducing it with a signal phrase, follow it with interpretive comments that link the quotation to your paper’s argument.
QUOTATION WITH INSUFFICIENT CONTEXT
In a respected biography of Nathan Bedford Forrest, Hurst suggests that the temperamental Forrest “may have ragingly ordered a massacre and even intended to carry it out—until he rode inside the fort and viewed the horrifying result” and ordered it stopped.11
QUOTATION WITH EFFECTIVE CONTEXT
In a respected biography of Nathan Bedford Forrest, Hurst suggests that the temperamental Forrest “may have ragingly ordered a massacre and even intended to carry it out—until he rode inside the fort and viewed the horrifying result” and ordered it stopped.11 While this is an intriguing interpretation of events, even Hurst would probably admit that it is merely speculation.
Exercise: Integrating sources in Chicago (CMS) papers 1
Exercise: Integrating sources in Chicago (CMS) papers 2
Exercise: Integrating sources in Chicago (CMS) papers 3
Exercise: Integrating sources in Chicago (CMS) papers 4
signal phrase A phrase that cues and introduces the use of source material, usually by naming the author of the material.