In
one definition, writing is the communication of words through the development
of letters and symbols used on different mediums. The creation of the alphabet
was an important step in the growth of literacy, and over time it has become an
integral part of literacy. From its original use of recording taxes, writing has
taken to becoming an artistic endeavor in the modern world, while still
maintaining its purpose of informing on knowledge and news and keeping records
of events.
Writing
is a multi-use tool. As previously mentioned, it can be integral to have
written accounts of news or events, or to have documentation of general knowledge.
For example, scientific discoveries would run a higher risk of being forgotten
if they were not written down. In
essence, writing is an advantageous means of spreading knowledge, a form of
wealth in itself. The sharing of knowledge has allowed for a collective global evolution.
Scientific discoveries, such as the discovery of electricity, did not have to
be re-discovered by every nation because the written word allowed for the
dissemination of this information to other countries. They could then build
upon what is already known to make improvements.
Writing
has also found its way onto the spectrum of art forms. Modernity is marked by a
prevalence of books. Fictitious works draw the attention of readers eager to
escape into worlds outside of their own, outside of reality. Hundreds of books
exist solely to teach the art of fiction writing. Authors must make decisions
pertaining to style, setting, plot, and characters, to name a few elements. The
brilliance of writing stems from its ability to document the truth as well as to
allow for the creation of the impossible.
A danger can exist when
facts or real-life events are written down falsely, whether intentionally or otherwise.
Even in truth, the language used to describe an event influences perceptions;
an example of this is how a fight way be described as a “massacre” or a “battle”
depending on which side is speaking. Language is a delicate thing. Perhaps this
is why analysis and interpretation of a piece is hugely important, in both historical
and modern-day aspects.
Key terms of writing:
1. Communicative
2. Artistic
3. Persuasive
4. Informative
5. Pervasive
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