In a lively and engaging debate, Love, Power and Meaning outlines and challenges different critical approaches to reading and writing. Looking at a range of texts, including poems, artworks, advertising, political speeches and a one-act play, it explores representations of love and desire, and the complex relationship between power,language, and politics. Thought-provoking questions increase self-awareness, and sharpen critical skills. Insightful asides on history, context and writers' lives enrich the learning process. Creative writing exercises and activities engage readers with the practical side of cultural study: Write your own political speech, plan an ad campaign and write a review of a South African novel. Valuable tips, such as how to deal with gender in language, help readers with their academic writing. Love, Power and Meaning's bold and fascinating approach brings language and literature to life. Designed to suit both distance education courses and face-to-face teachi ng programmes, this book is an essential introduction to cultural and creative expression.