Re: Things You Really Need to Learn

Anymouse, January 25, 2010

I think you may have left out a word in number three: "The four major types of writing are: description, argument, explanation and definition." These, of course, do not necessarily include aesthetic forms of writing, which may do all of the above, but reading it well is not quite the same as finding keywords and "cutting through the crap." You make it clearer in your linked post that you're referring specifically to expository writing.

And (perhaps because I write fiction) I must take issue with "distinguishing truth from fiction." There is a great deal of truth in fiction. I think what you mean is "understanding how arguments and claims are framed rhetorically" or "understand warrants and claims" or "be able to recognize good evidence, solid logic, and emotional appeals." But truth and fiction are not binary and opposite categories, and truth itself is a pretty slippery fish.
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