When I started reading the essay, “Navigating Genres” by Kerry Dirk, I immediately became interested in his writing. The first thought I get when thinking back on his essay is how easy and understandable his techniques used within the paper were. This essay’s purpose is to describe the use of different types of genres, in which I believe he did very well. One of the reasons I believe that it was so easily understandable, enjoyable, and interesting to read is because of the use of genre. As he discusses, a certain genre is used for a specific audience. For example, this essay is for students who are trying to widen their understanding and use of genres, therefore he made the essay a more conversational, entertaining, and yet informational essay. This was a main point that stood out to me throughout his writing. Each type of genre, whether that be horror or a formal speech, is meant for a certain audience. Not only is it meant for a certain type of audience, it’s purpose is to get a specific reaction out of the people. I never really thought or analyzed genres in this way but once I read this, my eyes opened up to the fact of how useful they are. When Dirk discussed the idea of how understanding multiple genres is helpful, I realized for the first time, that if I sat down before writing and really analyzed the purpose of the assignment, the audience, and the effect I want to have on them, it would make it easier to write. Lastly, he mentioned headlines. He makes a very good point on headlines and how they must be good in order to catch someones attention. It also lets the reader know what they’re getting into. A funny title means a book filled with comedy, a romantic title means a book filled with love, and so on. Overall, I truly enjoyed his essay and thought it was very informational.