The readings by Amy J. Devitt and Bill Hart-Davidson both spoke about the role writers and readers have played in labeling written pieces into genres. My take-away from both articles is that writing does not have to be labeled into a genre or category, because writing can be unique, random, and/or consist of mixed content. By restricting writing into a specific genre, writers are also kept in a “box” and assumed to only write in one specific genre. In addition to writers, readers are also grouped into only reading certain genres. Writing, writers, and readers should not be classified into one genre, just as with everything else in life, we are entitled to have options and like/dislike what we wish. If someone wishes to read or write about non-fiction, why can that not also include poetry or drama, or informational, narratives, etc. Just as educators are encouraged to teach students by combining subjects, writing can also benefit from combining genres.
These genres have originated from the early ages of writing, and as we are living in an open and liberal society, people wish to eliminate all things having to do with labeling and being put into a category. This includes career wise, sexual preferences, spirituality, health, race, and more. I believe writing has been placed into specific genres because society is so accustomed to boxing everything and once things are “organized” it is difficult to see “routines”/”customs”, altered into something new. However, as generations continue to grow and find their voice, change will occur. Writing has come a long way since the origins of writing studies, thankfully what we have learned as the years go has been very helpful to instill writing rules, writing history, and more, but it is also okay to incorporate new things into the writing world.
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