By: Jodi Winowiecki
In the article, “Writing Is a Social and Rhetorical Activity,” the author explains the importance of writing to communicate and create social interactions by connecting to your audience. As Kevin Roozen states, “writers are always doing the rhetorical work of addressing the needs and interests of a particular audience, even if unconsciously.” The ability to select powerful words to connect with your audience can leave a lasting impact. When you are able to impact your audience on a powerful level it leaves them wanting to know more and continue that connection for further conversation. Words are the most powerful ways of communication
For example, good writing starts at a young age when you learn to communicate as children to create a connection. This connection you learn to develop as a child teaches you the types of audiences you seek to communicate with. As a child, you speak differently to your parents than you would another child, teacher, or stranger. Sub-consciously you are learning how to use different tones, body language, and words for which you want your message to be received. As you get older you develop more mature concepts of communicating with your audience. Throughout your life the standards and expectations of how you speak and present yourself become higher. Others are able to judge your word speak to draw an opinion of your education, maturity, and age.
The same can be said for writing. As a writer, you develop skills learned by others and experience to connect to your audience with the proper techniques to deliver your message. Understanding what the audience will expect in your writing will allow them to connect with the material and engage in the topic presented. However, learning the skills to connect with your audience on an emotional, intellectual, and powerful level requires practice in writing with plenty of failures. Being able to formulate powerful communication by word choice will determine how the audience judges your message and their ability to connect to the material. If the material is presented poorly with no confidence and relatable information the audience will get bored and lose interest in the message. On the other hand, if you are able to connect and provide curiosity with your audience then they will want more and continue the conversation about your message. So, in a way, your words alone can create an impact to change the view of the masses and maybe even a worldview.
