A question that can become complicated is what is a genre. From the more traditional comedy to the everyday mindless note, each has its own elements that make it a genre. With this being the case, Kerry Dirk mentions how it becomes important to be aware of what the writing is trying to convey. As well as consider who will be reading it. The idea of writing can be broken down into those two elements, content and reader.

A genre that has specific elements is a graduation speech, such as “This is Water” by David Foster Wallace. In his speech, he includes elements such as lessons for the future, and providing a source of inspiration. These are all expected aspects that tend to be in a commencement speech as the audience is one that is ready to take on a new chapter of life. Wallace chose to impart that it is important to recognize one’s own selfishness. As well as how it was important to be mindful of those around you. These ideas became the lessons that Wallace wanted future generations to understand. Including a story, like Wallace did with the three fish, lets the audience connect to the message from it rather than be told outright.

One last aspect to be aware of in a genre, is the location of which it will be read. Because, depending on who is receiving the work, they could interpret it very differently from another. “This makes knowing a genre about much more than simply knowing its form. You also need to consider the context in which it is being used.” (Dirk 8) With the context in mind, it allows for the writer to write it in the right context and let’s the reader know their intentions better.