Response to Aaron's Q

Q: As a writing teacher, would you focus on the importance of the writer or the reader in relation to text? Explain the faults in the view that opposes yours.

A: I believe that there is a relationship or a triad, if you will, among the author, reader & purpose of the text itself. No single category is more or less important. However, students inevitably write as though they were talking to themselves. Often times, students write using pronouns such as "I" or "me," which constantly reminds them that their thoughts & opinions matter. However, take a persuasive or argumentative piece instead of a narrative. Then, students begin to realize that the writing is not necessarily about the author but about how the author can reach his or her audience. Without that bridge between the reader and writer, the purpose of the text becomes null and void. Unless the writer tends to keep one's writing to his or herself, the audience should be given more attention. That means, the writers needs to see from the outsider's perspective and look into the text instead of looking out into the world through his/her own eyes.