how do you write a personal response essay?

I have to write one on an essay called "Sanctuary" by Scott Russell Sanders for comp 2 but I'm not sure totally how to write one.. It says no more than 1/3 of the essay should be a summary.. So what should I write in the rest of the essay? Just my view of the subject? or what?

Greetings!

In a personal response essay, you will be discussing your reaction to the author's work, mainly in terms of how his expression of ideas creates an emotional and intellectual response in you. Look at how he wrote his essay. Did he make soothing or harsh word choices? Did he employ a lot of metaphor? If so, were they effective metaphors? He uses a lot of very active descriptors: "the blooming, darting, singing world." Does this give you more of a sense of immediacy, of being there? Were you able to visualize the world he was describing, and, if so, how did it make you feel?

I hope this helps!

Thanks,

Sarah, EssayForum.com