Exegetical essentials : A framing structure and template for a comprehensive exegesis in the creative arts

For over two decades, the number of candidates undertaking, and completing, research higher degrees in the discipline of creative arts has continued to grow, yet the anxiety associated with the exegesis, or critical component, to the award has not dissipated. This article reports the views of a small number of research higher degree candidates and their supervisor in response to questions posed by the TEXT ‘Exegesis now’ call for papers. In this sample, the exegesis was perceived as a necessary and useful component to the award by all respondents, who are completing diverse creative projects. However, respondents also express some anxiety and uncertainty over what is required in the exegesis in terms of formal, structural and compositional elements. Discussion of the views expressed by respondents identifies common challenges and proposes a number of strategies that may provide greater certainty and alleviate some of the anxiety for candidates and their supervisors. It includes a template for a comprehensive exegesis and two ways the exegesis can be structured to form a rigorous frame around, and supportive complement to the creative work.