"I am predisposed to the essay with knowledge to impart-but, unlike journalism, which exists primarily to present facts, the essays transcend their data, or transmute it into personal meaning. The memorable essay, unlike the article, is not place or time bound; it survives the occasion of its original composition. Indeed, in the most brilliant essays, language is not merely the medium of communication; it is communication."
As a writer, I have envisioned being remembered long after my time. While reading quotes by various essayists, the title “The Memorable Essay,” leaped off the page. Since I first put pen to paper, I have always longed to write a piece so intuitive and creative that it would still be inspiring readers for years to come. However, before reading Oates’s words, I never imagined an essay holding that kind of power. I always thought essays were informative and focused on the facts. How could something filled with data and quotes be memorable? I had always associated memorable writing with creative ideas and sensory details that caused the reader’s imagination to come alive. However, as Oate’s explained, an essay is distinctly different from journalism and articles, which seek solely to inform. Oate’s words opened my mind to what an essay truly is. There is so much more to an essay than one might think. A good essay presents facts, but also gives them personal meaning. An essay is made memorable in its ability to connect and relate to its readers. Whereas an article stays in a person’s memory until the next magazine or newspaper is delivered, a good essay can make an impression that lasts a lifetime. As Oates explains, in a great essay, time and place are not barriers. It is an essay’s ability to give mere facts and data personal meaning that makes it memorable. The facts are presented in such a way that everyone feels a sincere connection to the topic, even if the topic is an issue that took place fifty years before they were born. As Oate’s describes it, in a good essay, the author’s language is communication. The words, ideas, statistics, and thoughts speak to the reader and create an intense feeling of solidarity.
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