how are literary and arguments similar

2 min read 07-12-2024

The Unexpected Allies: How Literary and Argumentative Writing Converge

At first glance, literary and argumentative writing seem like polar opposites. One evokes emotion and explores the human condition, the other meticulously builds a case with evidence and logic. Yet, a closer examination reveals a surprising kinship: both literary and argumentative writing share a core dependence on compelling narratives, strategic structure, and persuasive techniques.

Shared Foundation: The Art of Persuasion

The fundamental similarity between literary and argumentative writing lies in their shared goal: persuasion. Argumentative writing aims to convince the reader of a specific viewpoint, using evidence and reasoning. Literary writing, while not explicitly arguing a thesis statement, persuades the reader to engage with the characters, empathize with their struggles, and accept the author's vision of the world. Consider a powerful novel: it doesn't explicitly argue for a political ideology, but it subtly shapes the reader's understanding of social issues, morality, or human nature.

Narrative Structure: A Common Thread

Both forms rely on strong narrative structures to engage the reader and guide their understanding. Argumentative essays utilize a clear introduction, body paragraphs with supporting evidence, and a concise conclusion. Similarly, literary works employ narrative arcs, rising action, climax, and resolution to build suspense, create emotional impact, and ultimately, persuade the reader to invest in the story. The effective use of pacing, foreshadowing, and character development mirrors the strategic deployment of evidence and logical progression in argumentative writing.

Rhetorical Devices: Tools of the Trade

Effective literary and argumentative writing both employ various rhetorical devices to enhance their persuasive power. Metaphors, similes, and analogies, common in literature, can also effectively illustrate complex points in an argument. Similarly, appeals to logos (logic), pathos (emotion), and ethos (credibility), crucial elements of argumentative writing, are also present in literature, albeit often in a more subtle and nuanced manner. A powerful literary description can evoke pathos as effectively as a carefully constructed argumentative appeal.

Examples of Convergence

Consider the impact of a well-crafted anecdote in both forms. In an argumentative essay, a personal anecdote can provide compelling evidence and connect with the reader on an emotional level. In literary writing, anecdotes drive the narrative forward, reveal character traits, and create emotional resonance. The same technique, employed differently, serves both forms equally well.

Divergence: Emphasis and Intent

While sharing considerable overlap, the two forms diverge in their primary emphasis and intent. Argumentative writing prioritizes logical reasoning and factual evidence to support a specific claim. Literary writing, on the other hand, prioritizes artistic expression, emotional impact, and exploring complex themes. While an argument might utilize evocative language, its primary goal is to persuade through logic. While a novel might contain elements of argumentation, its primary aim is to create a compelling and engaging narrative.

Conclusion: Mutual Enrichment

The similarities between literary and argumentative writing are significant. Understanding these overlaps can enrich both forms. By studying the persuasive techniques employed in literature, argumentative writers can enhance their ability to connect with their audience on a deeper level. Similarly, literary writers can benefit from a clearer understanding of logical structure and the strategic use of evidence to strengthen their narratives and make their themes more impactful. Ultimately, both forms strive to communicate effectively, to persuade and move the reader, making the unexpected alliance between them a powerful force in communication.