I have posted previously about how genre is an important part of communication that often goes unnoticed. In the class reading assignment, Kerry Dirk uses a ransom letter as an example of the importance of genre in rhetoric. While ransom letters are illegal, the importance of understanding genre and rhetoric remain the same. They offer three examples; one is an articulate and convincing threat that conveys an intelligent plan and an offer to return the subject in exchange for money. Readers tend to naturally respect intelligent communication. The other one is barely legible and conveys the idea that this person did not plan thoroughly. There is no point in paying the second kidnapper, because he will likely get caught by the police anyway. The third one is a letter that is overly friendly to the point of being unbelievable and uses a lot of words that do not contribute to the goal. The reader won’t believe it, even if the threat is true. The first one offers the best chance of getting the reaction that the writer would want. (Dirk, 2010)

I grew up very aware of the anti-genre sentiment that Kerry Dirk refers to. There were many cultural figures growing that made it seem like conforming to a specific set of rules to be like giving up and becoming a boring old person. However, eventually you realize that this is, in fact, a genre in itself. Conforming to a specific genre in writing does not necessarily mean that you are boring, it simply means that you have chosen your creative message and wish to keep following it. You also get the opportunity to learn from others who have come before you. This would be apparent if you ever have to write a convincing email. An example would be when I learned about some computer changes being made at a bank I use that I found frustrating. I would no longer be able to use the Zelle app to send money to the bank. Instead of getting frustrated and venting to the staff, which would have yielded nothing; I sent a polite email similar to the one mentioned in Kerry Birks article of about late fees. I brought attention to the problem and pointed out the advantages of the alternative. (Dirk, 2010)

Works Cited:

dirk–navigating-genres.pdf, Writing Spaces: Readings on Writing,
Volume 1. 2010. Parlor Press. Kerry Dirk.