Pipher 5-7

There are so many topics and issues Pipher engages the reader in, which provide for an exciting read. The underlying theme expressed throughout her message seemed to be in relation to the expressivism philosophy of writing. Each chapter encourages writers to find their unique voice while communicating a personal message. Though I don’t agree with some of her political viewpoints, her passion for the issues is evident. Ultimately, authors should attempt to emulate Pipher’s enthusiasm in their own writing.

The portion of the text I enjoyed the most dealt with framing arguments. I completely agree with Pipher when she said, “If we write, in traditional ways, about raising the minimum wage, people will have their usual political, knee-jerk reactions.” Essentially, we cannot directly confront third rail issues without expecting some sort of negative reaction. Instead, writers need to think of other ways to discuss controversial issues. For example, Pipher suggests that writers should tell an emotional story to illustrate an unfamiliar point of view. Successful writers are able to place the reader in the shoes of another through stomach wrenching accounts, both fictional and nonfictional, showing the complete and unedited story.

Finally, writers need to inspire their audience to take action. Writers wanting to change the world must provide the foundation for change itself. In all reality, agents of change must persuade, motivate, and provide logical reasoning among people in order to achieve their goal. In the end, authentic people who can empathize with a specific cause are the only ones capable of inspiring change.

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You can lead a horse to water, but the can’t make him drink. However, the job of the writer is merely to act as the horse’s leader.