What is one way to discern the meaning of a word using the context of the writing? Re-read the sentences that come before and after the term.
o Use an internet search engine.
O Look it up in the dictionary.
Ask a friend.

I would say to reread the sentences, as with the others you don't use the context to find the definition. By searching in the piece of work, you can get a general feel of the writing, which will help you decifer the meaning.

Explanation:

in the quotation from passage, connie willis states that literature is a way for authors from the past to communicate with readers of today. we can read their stories, books, and other texts to learn lessons about life. willis refers to these lessons as messages “from beyond the grave.” willis has a favorable viewpoint about the timelessness of literature.