Comparing two writers / literary works: How to start a Comparison and Contrast Essay?

I will be writing an essay comparing two writers. 5 to 6 pages.
How should I start out? I never wrote this type of paper.
Thanks

I'd start my essay by introducing the two writers you're comparing/contrasting, then in the paragraphs, that follows, you can discuss the different characteristics/features/etc...

So, your essay would roughly look like...

I. Introduction to writer A and writer B.
II. Discuss the distinct features of writer A.
III. Discuss the distinct features of writer B.
IV. Discuss how writer A and writer B are similar.
V. Conclusion.

Of course, II, III, IV can expand over several paragraphs, depending on what you wish to outline.

Another straightforward approach is to just separate the similarities and differences in different parts of the essay.

I. Introduction to writer A and writer B.
II. All the differences between writer A and writer B.
III. All the similarities between writer A and writer B.
IV. Conclusion.

Romeo and Juliet compared to Message in a bottle by Nicholas Sparks - similarities?

I need some similarities to form a thesis, but Im having trouble.

Hi Diana, welcome to EssayForum!
I am not familiar with the one by Sparks, but I think you should search google for these terms: message in a bottle, sparks, analysis, themes

If you search for those terms, you will find some articles that tell you several major points about the theme of the story. Collect those themes. Compare them to the themes from Romeo and Juliet.

It will be easy, because you only need to collect 4 or 5 points about each story. Then, write about the similarities and differences.

:-)