First, you must have clarity about the words you use, and the concepts behind them:

For example, what do you mean when you ask someone to 'Analyse this text'? 

What is a Theme, and is it the same as a topic?

Is identifying the constituting elements of a text the same as interpreting that text?

Once you have that clarity, you can make reasoned, informed choices that will be your own. Without clarity, you will end up making choices by default which will serve neither you nor your learners.

Know your goals - identify them clearly; make sure to separate issues, and then make informed decisions

1.   Teaching literature vs. Teaching with literature

2.   Introducing literature vs Working with literature

3.   Meaning vs. interpretation

4.   Theme vs. topic

5.   Theme vs. argument

6.   Analysis vs interpretation

7.   Author vs. Reader(s)

8.   Expectations and reality: of fiction, of readers, of teachers