Essays / Comparing two writers / literary works: How to start a Comparison and Contrast Essay? [4]

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.