“What is the purpose of literature?” I have my own answers to this question. But I decided it would be more interesting to ask you for yours.
So I gave the WP survey function a whirl. I’ve tried to be comprehensive in my choices and I set the parameters to allow you to choose as many answers as you like.
However, I know my answers are subjective and incomplete. Which is where the “other” box or the comments section comes in handy. I’ll be keen to see what you say!
You’ve covered both bases, but I think the purpose would differ greatly for writer and reader. Perhaps two surveys?
I hadn’t thought about two surveys, or the divide in purposes between readers and writers. In part, I think, because I believe my work has to be more about the reader than it is about me. (Some might argue I fail in this, but it ain’t for lack of trying.) In a draft of the poll, I had paired “To save the writer from pain, despair, or madness” with “To inflict pain, despair, or madness in the reader” but I decided that was a bit cheeky and a bit redundant, so I skipped it.
Cheeky is your middle name I should think! What a generous writer you are, always thinking of the reader. I should probably try that. More of an inflictor myself… 🙂
I like your poll.
Thanks. Figured I’d try something new. You never know.
oh my. 😀
I’m sure there are lots more.